INTRODUCTION
Rationale
In today's global landscape, English stands out as the most widely spoken language, significantly influencing societal and technological advancements It serves as a vital communication tool and demonstrates its positive impact across various facets of life.
In ancient times, before human civilization emerged, our ancestors observed natural phenomena and crafted idioms that were concise yet meaningful, aiding children in learning and understanding Today, idioms play a significant role in both agriculture and the daily lives of English and Vietnamese speakers, continually evolving and enriching human culture.
Idioms reflect the rich cultural heritage of nations, with weather-related expressions being particularly significant Both English and Vietnamese speakers often engage with these idioms in various activities, including outdoor events, travel, and agriculture Weather plays a crucial role in influencing crop yields, making these idioms not only culturally relevant but also practically important in daily life.
The author aims to enhance readers' awareness and vocabulary of weather-related idioms, drawing inspiration from the beauty of nature and the valuable experiences of previous generations By exploring English-Vietnamese idioms related to weather, the author hopes to foster a deeper understanding of their usage, which serves as a key motivation for this research.
Aims of the study
Being aware of the fact that idioms are extremely difficult topic for foreign learners and native speakers My research is aimed at:
- Providing the description of English – Vietnamese idioms to realize their similarities and differences
This article explores the similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese idioms related to weather, highlighting their meanings and usage By examining these idioms, we gain insights into the cultural and societal nuances of both countries The comparison reveals how weather-related expressions reflect shared human experiences while also showcasing unique cultural perspectives Ultimately, this analysis deepens our understanding of language and its connection to cultural identity.
- Helping the learners use right idioms in right situations.
Scope of the study
Throughout my studies, I have developed a fascination with weather-related idioms in both English and Vietnamese However, due to time constraints and my limited knowledge, I am unable to cover all the weather idioms in both languages Therefore, I will focus on discussing several key points.
- The importance of English - Vietnamese idioms related to the weather in daily life
- The similarities and differences in the people’s feeling, attitude and experience towards the weather in English – Vietnamese idioms, partially reflecting the two nations’ culture and society.
Method of the study
To carry out this research, some methods have been used
- Data collection through reference books, internet, dictionary, etc…
- Discussion with friends, teachers and supervisor
Design of the study
This paper consists three main parts, helping an easy exploration and practical benefits
Chapter 2: English – Vietnamese idioms related to the weather
Chapter 3: Some difficulties for English learners to English idioms related to the weather
General theoretical background
Definition of idioms
An idiom is a phrase whose meaning cannot be understood by interpreting the individual words literally Instead, its significance arises from cultural context and common usage, making it a unique expression in language.
The English idiom "to kick the bucket" means to die, a meaning that cannot be inferred from the individual words "kick" and "bucket." While the phrase might suggest a literal action of kicking a bucket, native speakers rarely use it in that context.
An idiom is a unique expression or phrase within a language that cannot be understood by analyzing the individual meanings of its components.
Idiomatic expressions often have meanings that differ significantly from the literal interpretations of their individual words For example, "fall out" signifies a quarrel, despite neither "fall" nor "out" implying conflict Similarly, the phrase "a feather in one's cap" represents an honor or achievement to be proud of, showcasing its metaphorical nature Another instance is "under the rose," which literally doesn't convey its true meaning of secrecy Understanding these idioms is essential for grasping their intended significance in language.
An idiom refers to a word or phrase that conveys a meaning distinct from its literal interpretation, often functioning as a metaphor These expressions are widely recognized and understood through their figurative meanings, which are not immediately obvious but become clear through common usage.
An idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning cannot be deduced from the individual words it contains, necessitating its learning as a complete unit According to the Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary, understanding idioms is essential for grasping the nuances of a language.
According to the Longman Dictionary of Language Teaching and Applied Linguistics, an idiom is defined as an expression that operates as a single unit, with a meaning that cannot be deduced from its individual components.
Thành ngữ là những cụm từ hoặc câu có ý nghĩa không thể suy ra từ nghĩa của từng từ riêng lẻ; vì vậy, thành ngữ cần được xem như một đơn vị hoàn chỉnh.
An idiom is a phrase or expression whose overall meaning cannot be deduced from the meanings of its individual words, making it essential to understand it as a complete unit.
Idioms are fixed phrases that carry specific meanings, often lacking grammatical completeness They cannot be altered or substituted linguistically, standing independently from the words or images used to form complete sentences.
(From www.vi.wikiquote.org/wiki/thanh_ngu_viet_nam)
English idioms are unique linguistic units, consisting of phrases and expressions whose meanings cannot be derived from the literal interpretation of their individual words Instead, their significance must be understood in the context of their conventional usage Broadly speaking, English idioms encompass phrases, common sayings, proverbs, and idiomatic expressions.
6 phrases, slang a two- part allegorical saying and allusion and so on.
The Origins of Idioms
2.1 Idioms from cognition of animals
Animals are diverse and inhabit various environments, with some, like polar bears, living far from human contact, leading to lesser-known terms in language In contrast, domestic animals are closely associated with humans, serving as pets, food sources, or protectors, which makes their behaviors and traits more familiar and frequently referenced in language Expressions such as “cats and dogs,” “let the cat out of the bag,” and “as wise as an owl” illustrate how certain qualities are attributed to specific animals, often evoking particular emotions or reactions For instance, the term "eager beaver" reflects the industrious nature of beavers, symbolizing a person who is hardworking and somewhat impatient.
2.2 Idioms from cognition of natural environment
Britain, an island situated in the British Isles, is surrounded by significant bodies of water, including the English Channel and the North Sea The natural environment has profoundly influenced British culture, evident in numerous idioms related to the sea, fishing, and navigation For instance, the phrase "go by the board," which dates back to the Boat Age, refers to the side of a boat and illustrates the choices a captain faces during a storm when the rail is compromised.
The choice between fixing a problem or letting it go can significantly impact outcomes, with the former providing a slim chance of survival while the latter often leads to failure This idiom reflects the broader concept of "failure of a plan." Other related expressions include "take someone down a peg," "steer clear of," and "tide over," illustrating various aspects of navigating challenges Phrases like "as close as an oyster," "cast an anchor to windward," and "hoist sail while the wind is fair" emphasize the importance of proactive measures, while "like a ship without a rudder" and "between the devil and the deep blue sea" highlight the dangers of indecision.
2.3 Idioms from cognition of weather
Weather plays a crucial role in our lives and has significantly influenced economic development throughout history People have long observed natural phenomena, leading to the creation of various idioms that reflect their understanding and interest in these changes.
I want to make this research Some idioms about the weather such as: brass-monkey weather, lovely weather for ducks, etc
2.4 Idioms from cognition of amusement
English idioms related to amusement reflect themes of adventurousness, teamwork, mobility, and even violence In card games, every significant move carries risk, and Americans are often willing to take chances for a win, especially after experiencing bad luck Players may keep a "card up one’s sleeve" to gain an advantage, and at the end of each round, the winner "throws up the cards," revealing their hand to everyone, symbolizing transparency and openness Additionally, idioms from baseball, like "to not get to first base," signify early failure in an endeavor, illustrating the competitive spirit inherent in these games.
2.5 Idioms from cognition of culinary art and food
English idioms often incorporate diet-related terms, reflecting the cultural significance of staple foods like bread, cheese, and butter in Anglo-American society One notable idiom, "baker's dozen," originated in 15th century England, when bakers added an extra loaf to avoid penalties for underweight bread This practice led to the common understanding of a dozen as thirteen, a number often avoided by the English Additionally, the phrase "bread and circuses" highlights the importance of providing entertainment to maintain public support and peace Another idiom, "The proof of the pudding is in the eating," emphasizes that the true quality of pudding can only be determined through tasting, showcasing the idea that experience is essential for understanding value.
The phrase "the proof of the pudding is in the eating" emphasizes that practical experience is the best way to evaluate something Similarly, the expression "as easy as pie" reflects the enjoyment and simplicity associated with eating pie Many diet-related idioms stem from cooking, with traditional food phrases often featuring staples like bread, butter, and cheese, as well as beverages Tea, a popular drink introduced to Europe by the Dutch in the 17th century, has become a cherished tradition, particularly among the English, who enjoy afternoon tea This custom has given rise to various idioms, including "high tea," "low tea," and "for all the tea in China."
2.6 Idioms from cognition of laboring
In English, many idioms reflect the importance of agriculture and
Agriculture has been central to the American experience since its inception, as it fulfills essential human needs and connects generations through shared rhythms and aspirations The United States boasts a diverse and rich agricultural landscape, largely due to its vast geography and favorable natural conditions, particularly in the eastern Great Plains This environment supports large-scale farming, which is reflected in numerous idioms within Anglo-American culture, such as “sow one’s wild oats” and “as you sow, so will you reap.” These expressions highlight the importance of agricultural work and illustrate the intricate division of social labor across various trades and professions.
A tailor says, “Cut the coat according to the cloth.”
A farmer says, “As a man sow, so shall he reap.”
A fisherman says, “The best fish swim near the bottom.”
A housewife says, “A stitch in time saves nine ”
Some common features of idioms
English idioms possess unique characteristics that set them apart from other words and expressions These idioms can be understood through two main aspects that define their meaning and usage.
Idioms are phrases or sentences composed of at least two constituents, forming a cohesive semantic unit Although the individual words within an idiom retain their literal meanings, the overall expression conveys a meaning that transcends those definitions.
Idioms often obscure the individual meanings of their components, making them less recognizable within the context of the entire phrase Additionally, the grammatical roles of each word become insignificant, as idioms frequently operate as single units of meaning.
For example: Black and white
Literal meaning: to say that something is in black and white means that there is written proof of it
Idiomatic meaning: it’s an obligation It’s written in black and white in your contract
Second of all, the idioms have the character of structural stability The structure of an idiom is to a large extent invariable, unlike free phrases
The constituents of idioms can not be changed or replaced For example, “ as white as snow” (trắng như tuyết) can not be changed as “as white as cotton”
Idioms often exhibit syntactic anomalies, featuring unconventional grammatical structures A prime example is the phrase "diamond cuts diamond," which suggests that two parties are equally matched While this expression may seem grammatically incorrect—since the verb "cut" typically requires an "-s" for a singular subject—it effectively conveys its intended meaning in a unique way.
Idioms are fixed expressions where no words can be altered or removed, not even articles For example, in the phrase "out of the question," removing the article "the" changes its meaning to "no question," thus losing the original idiomatic significance.
The word order can not be inverted or changed For example, “by twos and threes” are not being turned into “by threes and twos” (ăn miếng trả miếng)
Classification of idioms
Idioms can be classified by different ways but on this paper idioms are classified into two main ways: syntactic classification and semantic classification
According to the syntactic classification, idioms can be classified into 6 groups: Verb phrases, Prepositional phrases, Adverb phrases, Noun phrases, adjective phrase and sentence
Definition: An idiom which works as a verb phrase or begins with a verb For example: “He sits on the fence”
In the example, “sit on the fence” (trung lập) refers to someone not oppose or not agree
“ keep the bone green” (giữ sức khoẻ tốt)
“Doing exercises can keep your bone green”
So this sentence gives an advice that you should do exercises so that you will have a good health
“She’s not hesitating; he’s just biding her time She’s waiting for the price to drop”
“Bide someone’s time’ (chờ cơ hội tốt nhất) means someone wait for a good opportunity to do something
Definition: An idiom which works as prepositional phase or begin with a preposition
For example: Up to the eyes in (ngập đầu trong công việc, nợ nần)
“He looks so miserable He’s up the eyes in his debt” This sentence means the man looks miserable because he is deep mean in debt So the phrase
“up to the eyes in” means someone has a lot of work or to be deep in debt
Under the eye of somebody (dưới sự giám sát của ai): supervise someone
“He works under the eye of his boss” It means he works under the supervision of his boss
While crossing the forest, he encountered a man lying on the ground, only to discover that he was lifeless The expression "in the dust" signifies death, indicating that the man had passed away rather than merely lying in dirt.
Definition: an idiom which works as adjective phase or begin with an adjective
To be green with envy (ghen tị)
“Lan is a selfish person She is always green with envy with her sister when she has anything new” Thus, “ green envy” expresses the extreme envy
This sentence means Lan is always envious with anything her sister has
To be red-letter day (ngày đáng nhớ)
“It was a red-letter day when my sister received her graduation diploma” Here, “tobe red-letter day” expresses a day that is memorable because of some important event
To be drunk as a fish (say bí tỉ)
Yesterday, he attended his best friend's birthday party and ended up drinking excessively The phrase "drunk as a fish" describes someone who has consumed so much alcohol that they cannot remember anything, often referred to as being "dead drunk."
To be well off ( giàu có)
He drives an expensive car and has a lot of money He is seem very well off
Definition: An idiom which works as adverb phase or begin with an adverb Once and for all (dứt khoát)
He ultimately chose not to visit his friend, indicating a change of heart from his initial intention The phrase "once and for all" signifies a definitive decision, emphasizing that he has made up his mind In my opinion, this highlights the importance of making clear choices in relationships.
“For my money, he is a good person” For my money” means give someone’s idea or opinion about something It is similar to “in my opinion” or
As a matter of fact (thực ra): really, actually (also: on fact)
“As a matter of fact, she didn’t love him any more” This means she actually
14 didn’t love him any more
Definition: An idiom which works as noun phase or begin with a noun The man in the moon (người mơ mộng vớ vẩn)
“He always thinks about unpractical things People call him as the man in the moon” The phrase “the man in the moon” implies the person who is unpractical, dreaming
Bull in a china shop (người vụng về lóng ngóng)
The phrase "bull in a china shop" describes a person who is clumsy or awkward, much like a bull would be in a delicate setting In this context, it illustrates a man whose lack of grace leads him to break another vase, highlighting his tendency to cause chaos in fragile situations.
Definition: An idiom which works as a sentence
It rains as dogs and cats (trời mưa như chút)
The idiom "It rains cats and dogs" illustrates heavy rainfall by referencing the incompatibility of dogs and cats, symbolizing the intensity of the downpour.
The coast is clear (không có khó khăn, trở ngại gì)
The phrase "the coast is clear" indicates that there are no obstacles or difficulties present Therefore, when someone says, "I think that you can do this work because the coast is clear," it implies that the task is manageable and within your capabilities.
Life is vale of tears (cuộc đời là bể khổ)
Life is often described as a "vale of tears," suggesting that it is filled with challenges and hardships However, rather than succumbing to despair, it's essential to focus on overcoming these obstacles Embracing this perspective can help you navigate through life's difficulties with resilience and hope.
Beauty is only skin deep (nhan sắc chỉ là bề ngoài)
It means that characteristic is better than appearance
Many idioms appear to be compositional because their individual words often carry non-standard meanings This analysis focuses on semantically decomposable idioms, which can be paraphrased by assigning meanings to their components For instance, in the idiom "spill the beans," the word "spill" can be interpreted as "reveal," while "beans" represents "secrets." By employing compositional processes, the overall meaning of the idiom can be derived from the meanings of its individual elements.
There are some idioms which can be realized their meaning when we see it For example
• Life is a vale of tears (cuộc đời là bể khổ): “a vale of tears” means that there are a lot of tears, miserableness, and difficulties
•Eaten bread is soon forgotten (ăn cháo đá bát): you are unfriendly or do harm to someone who is kind for you
•To die like a dog (chết khổ chết sở): die disgracefully, insignificant death
•To be beyond belief (không thể tin được): unbelievable
English- Vietnamese idioms related to the weathe
English idioms related to the weather
The main themes of English weather idioms are often about to predict the natural phenomena like rain, storm or snow Followings are some typical
English idioms related to the weather
• “It is raining cat and dog” (http://www.idiomsite.com/)
The idiom "raining cats and dogs" signifies a heavy and loud rainstorm, with origins that are not linked to the well-known rivalry between cats and dogs The phrase is not meant to be taken literally, as it does not describe an event where these animals fall from the sky While small creatures like frogs or fish may be lifted by unusual weather, there is no evidence to suggest that cats or dogs experience similar occurrences in groups Ultimately, the phrase's origin is not grounded in reality, making it an implausible concept.
During heavy weather, it has been suggested that cats and dogs sought refuge on roofs, which provided warmth for these small animals As a result, various pets, including dogs, cats, and other creatures like mice and bugs, often inhabited these rooftops However, when it rained, the surfaces became slippery, leading to instances where the animals would lose their footing and slide off.
18 fall off the roof Thus the saying, "it's raining cats and dogs."
Ex: It's raining cats and dogs out there! It's a wonder any of the men can see what they're doing!
• It is raining pitchforks (and hammer handles)
(http://vi.wiktionary.org/wiki/pitchfork)
It is raining very hard
Ex: Take an umbrella It's raining pitchforks and hammer handles out there!
• Pour with rain ( http://idioms.thefreedictionary.com/pour+with+rain)
The sky was drenched with heavy rain, with not a glimpse of sunshine from dawn until dusk Throughout the night, the downpour continued relentlessly, creating a constant atmosphere of wetness and gloom.
The weather proverb “Mare’s tails and mackerel scales make tall ships take in their sails” highlights the significance of cirrus and cirrocumulus clouds The 'Mare's Tail' refers to cirrus clouds, while 'Mackerel Scales' denotes the distinctive cirrocumulus clouds These cirrocumulus clouds, although less commonly observed, typically signal an approaching warm front and indicate good moisture at higher atmospheric levels Eventually, this weather pattern leads to the formation of lower clouds and subsequent precipitation.
(http://www.cbs3springfield.com/weather/classroom/folklore/6562717.html)
• “Clear moon, frost soon.” (http://www.wxdude.com/proverb.html)
On clear nights, the Earth's surface cools quickly as heat escapes into the atmosphere without the insulating effect of clouds In the absence of wind and with sufficiently low temperatures, this rapid cooling can lead to the formation of frost.
• “A year of snow, a year of plenty.” (http://www.wxdude.com/proverb.html)
A persistent layer of snow on agricultural land and orchards postpones the flowering of fruit trees until the risk of frost has passed Additionally, this snow cover protects winter grains, such as wheat, from the damaging effects of repeated thawing and freezing cycles.
• “Halo around the sun or moon, rain or snow soon.”
(http://www.wxdude.com/proverb.html)
A halo around the sun or moon is created by cirrus clouds composed of ice crystals, which function as tiny prisms to produce a white or colorful ring This phenomenon often signals an approaching warm front and a low-pressure area While rain or snow is not guaranteed to follow, the appearance of a halo increases the likelihood of precipitation, with a brighter circle indicating a higher probability.
• “When smoke descends, good weather ends”
(http://www.atmosphere.mpg.de/enid/2264)
Before a storm, unstable atmospheric pressure and high humidity hinder the rapid ascent of chimney or bonfire smoke, causing it to curl downward instead of rising.
• “When the stars begin to huddle, the earth will soon become a puddle.”
As cloud cover increases, vast regions of stars can become obscured, while clusters of stars in clearer sections of the sky appear to group closely together This rise in cloudiness also indicates a higher likelihood of rain.
"Sea Gull, Sea Gull, Sit on the Sand; A Sign of Rain When You're at Hand " Birds, particularly seagulls, are more sensitive to changes in air pressure than humans, often becoming more vocal and restless as a storm approaches.
Birds, such as sea gulls, often respond to changes in atmospheric pressure, particularly before storms, by roosting and waiting out the inclement weather These resilient birds are accustomed to harsh conditions and frequently gather in large numbers to sit out impending storms.
(http://www.cbs3springfield.com/weather/classroom/folklore/6703987.html)
• "Cow's Tail to the East Make's the Weather Least "
In New England, there's a saying that reflects a natural behavior observed in grazing animals: they tend to position themselves with their tails to the wind This behavior is primarily about their heads, as animals instinctively face the direction of the wind to detect the scent of potential predators The region's common onshore easterly breeze is often linked to inclement weather, leading to the adage of "forecasting by the cow's tail."
(http://www.cbs3springfield.com/weather/classroom/folklore/6704217.html)
• "When the Ditch Offends the Nose, Look for Rain and Stormy Blows "
High pressure weather is linked to sinking air, which keeps odors close to the ground, often trapping smells like those from swamps Conversely, when low pressure moves in, it allows these odors to rise and spread, signaling the possibility of an impending storm.
(http://www.cbs3springfield.com/weather/classroom/folklore/6704587.html)
• “When the Stars Seem to Huddle, the Earth May Soon Start to Puddle.”
At night, approaching clouds can obscure many stars in the sky, leaving only a few visible that seem to be clustered together While this phenomenon doesn't always indicate imminent rainfall, it often suggests changing weather conditions.
21 said that if the clouds are increasing, then so must the threat of rain
(http://www.cbs3springfield.com/weather/classroom/folklore/6704587.html)
• “Swallows Fly Low, Get Your Rain Gear in Tow”
Air pressure decreases with altitude, influencing bird behavior, especially during migration Birds tend to fly higher to take advantage of lower pressure levels, but each species has a limit to how low they can comfortably fly In low-pressure situations, the pressure is pushed closer to the ground, which can signal approaching stormy weather, affecting the birds' flight patterns.
(http://www.cbs3springfield.com/weather/classroom/folklore/6703572.html)
• “Flies bite more before it rains”
Vietnamese idioms related to the weather
• “Tháng bảy kiến bò chỉ lo lại lụt” or “Tháng bảy kiến đàn, đại hàn hồng thủy”
When ants are seen crawling in large numbers, it often indicates impending rain This behavior is driven by their instinctual fear of water, prompting them to climb higher than usual before a storm Observing this phenomenon can help people predict adverse weather conditions.
• “Tháng bảy heo may, chuồn chuồn bay thì bão.”
Or “Chuồn chuồn bay thấp thì mưa, bay cao thì nắng bay vừa thì râm”
Dragonflies thrive in sunny, dry conditions, allowing their lightweight bodies and wings to soar high in the sky However, when rain is imminent, increased humidity weighs down their wings, limiting their ability to fly at greater altitudes As a result, dragonflies tend to remain at lower altitudes under cloudy skies.
(http://www.gardendigest.com/weather.htm)
• “Ếch kêu uôm uôm, ao chuôm đầy nước”
Frogs have a unique ability to sense high humidity in the air before it rains through their skin This increased moisture allows them to absorb more oxygen, making them feel comfortable and lively As a result, frogs become particularly excited and vocal, leading to their characteristic croaking during rainy weather.
(http://sdc.udn.vn/forum/Topic.aspx?BoardID&TopicIDV)
• “Ráng hồng thì nắng, ráng trắng thì mưa.”
The pink sky occurs when sunlight reflects off atmospheric particles, while the white color represents steam from water vapor that rises, condenses, and forms clouds, ultimately leading to rain.
(http://sdc.udn.vn/forum/Topic.aspx?BoardID&TopicIDV)
• “Én bay thấp mưa ngập bờ ao.”
Swallows may not predict the weather, but their behavior can indicate impending rain When rain is imminent, increased humidity and low pressure cause insects, such as dragonflies and small mosquitoes, to fly closer to the ground As a result, swallows swoop low to catch these insects Therefore, observing swallows flying in flocks and diving down can be a sign that rain is on the way.
• “Đêm nào sao sáng xanh trời, Ấy là nắng ráo yên vui suốt ngày
Những ai chăm việc cấy cầy, Điềm trời trông đó, liệu xoay việc làm.”
Or “Mau sao thì nắng, vắng sao thì mưa”
On clear, cloudless nights, the stars are vividly visible, indicating minimal moisture in the atmosphere, which reduces the likelihood of rain Conversely, when the sky is filled with large clouds, star visibility diminishes, as these clouds contain significant amounts of water that can lead to rainfall in the near future.
(http://www.baigiang.violet.vn/present/show)
• “Mây càng bay cao trời càng đẹp”
Clear skies with few clouds indicate fair weather for the following day When steam condenses into clouds, it can lead to rain; however, high and bright clouds typically suggest that rain is unlikely, signaling pleasant weather conditions.
• “ Én bay cao mưa rào lại tạnh.”
Sallow flies tend to fly high when food is scarce, while they remain grounded during pleasant weather This behavior indicates that insects often take to the air just before it rains, signaling fair weather conditions.
Besides that, there are many idioms related to the fair weather such as:
“ Quạ tắm thì ráo, sáo tắm thì mưa” or “ Mây kéo xuống biển thì nắng chang chang”
Some pictures of insects and animals or stars, etc… which people often use to forecast the weather
In Vietnam, where the tropical monsoon climate and fertile plains support a predominantly agricultural economy, people often rely on animals, insects, clouds, and stars to forecast both bad and fair weather The reliance on wet rice production means that daily life is intertwined with farming tools and livestock, leading to the use of familiar metaphors drawn from these elements for comparison This connection between their environment and cultural expressions highlights how deeply ingrained agriculture is in Vietnamese society.
Comparison & Contrast between English and Vietnamese idiom
Idioms are a product of the cultural experiences of a community, evolving over time to reflect the unique history, customs, and lifestyles of its people Consequently, geographical and cultural differences are evident in the idiomatic expressions used across various languages This article explores the similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese cultures as expressed through their respective idioms.
Languages worldwide feature concise expressions known as idioms and proverbs, which encapsulate valuable life lessons In Vietnamese, these are referred to as "Thành ngữ - Tục ngữ," while in English, they are called "Idioms - Proverbs," and "PROVERBE" in French These expressions enrich language, enhance communication, and provide persuasive arguments Notably, there are striking similarities between Vietnamese and English idioms For instance, the Vietnamese saying “Yêu ai yêu cả đường đi” parallels the English phrase “Love me, Love my dog,” highlighting the shared wisdom across cultures.
Despite cultural differences, English and Vietnamese people share similarities in their thought processes and worldviews, which is reflected in their idiomatic expressions This overlap highlights the commonalities in how both cultures convey ideas and concepts through idioms.
Firstly, that is the belief of the people in natural phenomena Idioms have been mostly built by the life experience for many years ago Each person always
Individuals with a deep interest in the natural environment keenly observe various weather patterns over many days, allowing them to draw conclusions about future occurrences Without a belief in nature's rhythms, they cannot create idioms that help predict and forecast the weather Through years of experience with different natural phenomena—such as sunny, rainy, and stormy days—people have developed numerous sayings For example, the Vietnamese idiom “Mây càng bay cao trời càng đẹp” translates to “The higher the clouds, the finer the weather” in English, illustrating the connection between cloud height and weather conditions.
Idioms are not only refined and unique but also vivid, conveying similar meanings and awareness while retaining distinct national characteristics For instance, there are numerous idioms used to predict and forecast weather, particularly rain.
For example: “Én bay thấp, mưa ngập bờ ao” in Vietnamese and
"Swallows fly low, signaling impending rain; it's time to grab your rain gear This idiomatic expression reflects the universal truth that when signs are evident, preparation is key Just as 'Xa mặt, cách lòng' in Vietnamese parallels the English saying 'Out of sight, out of mind,' both emphasize the importance of being aware and ready for what lies ahead Stay alert to nature's cues and equip yourself accordingly."
Animals, along with celestial bodies like stars, the moon, and clouds, serve as indicators of natural phenomena, reflecting our connection to the environment and society The Creator has endowed animals with instincts that often allow them to predict weather changes more accurately than humans Despite their inability to communicate verbally, animals possess highly sensitive senses By observing their behaviors, such as swallows flying low or ants gathering in large numbers, we can learn valuable lessons about weather forecasting.
In various cultures, there are sayings that connect animal behavior to weather predictions, such as "Swallows fly low, get your rain gear in tow," indicating that low-flying swallows suggest impending rain Similarly, the Vietnamese proverb "Tháng bảy kiến bò chỉ lo lại lụt" reflects the belief that when ants are seen climbing to higher ground, it may signal an upcoming flood These expressions highlight the traditional wisdom linking nature's signs to weather changes.
The diverse geography, terrain, and climate of each country contribute to the unique cultural characteristics and identities of its people As a result, English and Vietnamese idioms exhibit significant differences, reflecting the distinct cultural nuances of each language.
Vietnamese farmers view nature as integral to their lives and recognize the crucial role of agriculture in the nation's economy By closely observing natural signs and the behavior of animals and insects, they can effectively predict weather patterns and mitigate the impact of natural phenomena, leading to improved agricultural outcomes.
“Gió bấc hiu hiu, sếu kêu thì rét”
It is difficult to find English equivalent idioms because English idioms mostly reflect rather social relationship than natural one and work experience
Secondly, there are some differences in using metaphor idioms between two nations Many different symbols are used to indicate the same meanings and awareness
The Vietnamese idiom “Kiến đen tha trứng lên cao, thế nào cũng có mưa rào rất to” and the English phrase “It is raining cats and dogs” both describe heavy rain, yet they reflect different cultural perspectives While the Vietnamese idiom uses the imagery of ants, which are commonly seen in their environment, to illustrate the impending downpour, the English expression employs a more whimsical metaphor These idioms highlight how different cultures interpret and express the same natural phenomenon.
People often react to natural phenomena, allowing them to predict adverse weather conditions In contrast, the English commonly use the phrase "it's raining cats and dogs" to describe severe weather.
Each nation possesses its unique history and literature, reflected in the distinct symbols they use to convey meaning In Vietnamese culture, the buffalo symbolizes strength, rooted in the agricultural significance of wet rice production Conversely, the English regard the horse as a representation of power This cultural divergence extends to idiomatic expressions; for instance, while certain animal imagery carries positive connotations in English, it may hold negative meanings in Vietnamese In Vietnam, dogs are often viewed as unclean and unintelligent, as illustrated by the idiom “Ngu như chó” (As stupid as a dog).
In England, dogs are cherished as beloved pets, receiving ample care, good nutrition, and comfortable sleeping arrangements The affection for these animals is reflected in the language, as English idioms frequently incorporate positive animal references, such as the phrase "to be a lucky dog."
Some difficulties for learner of English when study idioms
Some difficulties in studying idioms
Many people enjoy English idioms, but they often face challenges in understanding them This article explores common difficulties that arise when learning weather-related idioms.
Firstly, because of the unlike geography, the differences between the cultures of two countries is unavoidable, especially the idiom system
Many idioms are challenging to interpret accurately due to their connection with the literal meanings of their individual words or phrases However, their meanings can often be deduced within specific contexts or situations.
Thirdly, the main difficulty is that learners do not know the level of
35 style; that is, whether an idiom can be used in a formal or an informal situation
In formal settings, especially when addressing unfamiliar individuals or public audiences, it is essential to choose words with great care Utilizing slang expressions would be inappropriate in such contexts This highlights the ability to convey the same information or ideas through various stylistic approaches.
Translating English idioms into Vietnamese can be challenging, as there may not always be direct equivalents available This often leads to the acceptance of alternative phrasing to convey the intended meaning.
Suggested solutions
With above difficulties, how to overcome the difficulties is still of a great question, the following suggestions are referred to help Vietnamese learners in their English studying:
Firstly, the learners should understand about the culture, belief, region, daily habit of both Vietnamese and English so that they can compare and guess the meaning of the idioms
Secondly, the learners should study the features of idioms carefully, and distinguish them from other kinds of set expression to identify the idioms better
Thirdly, the learners can analyze the meaning of all components and the relationship among the components or study the meaning in the context or ask the native speakers
It is advisable to limit the use of slang expressions, as they can often come across as unfamiliar or awkward Instead, opting for idioms that maintain a neutral tone is a more effective choice Additionally, understanding when an idiom is appropriate or appreciated in a given context enhances communication.
36 also a difficulty This can only be learnt by careful reading of English texts which contain idioms The learners should take careful note of examples of usage in typical situation
When learning English idioms, it's important for Vietnamese learners to recognize that some idioms have multiple Vietnamese equivalents Care should be taken in selecting idioms that accurately reflect the nuances of Vietnamese culture and society, as overly specific choices may disrupt the coherence of English style Additionally, certain English idioms lack direct Vietnamese translations; in such cases, it's essential to convey the intended meaning while preserving the appropriate nuances.
CONCLUSION
Major findings
Idioms represent a unique aspect of language, being both simple and complex Learning English through idioms is an effective method for enhancing language skills, as it provides insights into everyday communication and the cultural nuances of English and Vietnamese speakers This research highlights the significance of idioms in daily life, particularly focusing on English-Vietnamese weather idioms By exploring these weather-related expressions, one gains a deeper understanding of the cultural traditions and customs inherent in both languages Observations of daily life and work have historically informed people's ability to forecast the weather, making idioms a vital part of this knowledge.
Both insects and animals, along with natural imagery like the moon, clouds, and stars, are commonly used to predict the weather These symbols in the sky reflect a deep-rooted belief in natural phenomena, shaped by centuries of life experiences and idiomatic expressions.
Secondly, there are many different between territory, terrain and climate condition which lead to have different in thinking and describing the images
Understanding the application of weather-related English idioms can be quite challenging due to their connections to various fields, including geography, social development, and culture Additionally, the origins of these idioms are often unclear With English being spoken in numerous countries, the variety of idioms generated is substantial.
Vietnamese learners face significant challenges in mastering English idioms, including difficulties in identifying idiomatic expressions, deciphering their meanings, and applying them appropriately in various contexts.
To effectively navigate the challenges of learning idioms, students should thoroughly explore their features, infer meanings from context, and engage in careful reading of English texts Additionally, practicing exercises and paying attention to cultural nuances will enhance their cultural competence.
Implications for ELT & learning
In today's world, the significance of English in our daily lives has made learning and using the language essential Understanding linguistic theory and its application in English Language Teaching (ELT) is not overly complex This article explores effective methods for teaching and learning idioms in various contexts, both inside and outside the classroom.
Which idioms to teach? This is a primary consideration since teachers always wish their learners to learn those idioms that will allow them to
To engage more effectively with native speakers, learners should focus on the most useful idioms in any language, which often coincide with the most frequently used ones Recent research has enhanced our understanding of this topic, particularly through Liu's work on the most commonly spoken idioms in American English Therefore, frequency should be a key criterion when selecting idioms for teaching purposes.
When teaching idioms, educators can choose between separate lessons or integrated ones While dedicated lessons may seem useful, they often fall short due to limited time and the lack of natural language context Therefore, many experts advocate for integrated lessons that weave idioms into regular instruction, enhancing the focus on all four language skills.
To enhance learners' understanding of idioms, it is essential to cultivate their awareness by encouraging them to notice idiomatic expressions in daily reading and listening activities Teachers can facilitate this process by engaging students with questions about idiom usage and integrating new idioms into vocabulary enhancement and reading exercises Utilizing authentic materials from sources such as television, newspapers, and magazines can further enrich the learning experience, allowing educators to adapt these resources to suit the learners' proficiency levels.
To enhance learners' understanding of idioms, it's effective to connect new information to their existing knowledge and encourage them to visualize concepts Utilizing imagination can significantly aid in the learning process.
To effectively teach idioms in the classroom, researchers recommend employing a variety of techniques A crucial first step is to present idioms in context, as contextual clues aid learners in understanding unfamiliar expressions Encouraging students to infer the meanings of idioms using these clues, along with their background knowledge or first language equivalents, is essential Teachers can support this process, especially when idioms are challenging to decipher Additionally, various strategies can help students recognize the connection between an idiom's literal and figurative meanings For example, having learners create drawings to illustrate the literal meaning can be particularly beneficial for lower-proficiency students, especially for idioms that evoke strong imagery.
After introducing idioms in context and guiding learners to deduce their meanings, it is essential for teachers to review the idioms covered This can be achieved through various methods, such as engaging students in vocabulary exercises that involve matching idioms to their definitions, completing sentences with the correct idiom, or substituting highlighted phrases with appropriate idiomatic expressions.
Suggestions for further study
It is said that idioms are one of the most complicated fields for studying but they are very interesting when used in daily life
This study has attempted to show an overview of idioms in general and the idioms related to the weather in English – Vietnamese
All what have been referred to in this paper come from the limited understanding and ability It is, however, hoped that this study will be a small
This article explores the significance of idioms in international language, serving as a valuable resource for those interested in English and Vietnamese cultures Due to time constraints, limited reference materials, and the researcher's capabilities, not all aspects of idioms could be addressed It is hoped that future studies will expand on these themes.
- Comparison & Contrast on English- Vietnamese proverbs and idioms
- A study on English – Vietnamese idioms describing people’s characteristics
- A study on English – Vietnamese idioms using images of insects and animals
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