INTRODUCTION
RATIONALE
Love and the desire for life have always been central themes in human existence, influencing individuals from birth through adulthood These powerful emotions encompass various forms of love, including familial, patriotic, and romantic connections, and are essential for personal success and development For instance, a lack of passion for one's work can lead to low productivity and failure, while musicians devoid of love may struggle to create timeless music Additionally, individuals lacking a desire for life may find it challenging to grow and evolve Consequently, many idioms related to love and life’s aspirations have emerged, serving to inspire and educate, particularly in literature, though they often incorporate complex metaphors that require deeper understanding.
Love and the desire for life are abstract concepts that can be challenging to convey effectively For instance, while some express "I love you" directly, others may use metaphorical imagery, such as saying, "My heart has turned on the green light, but why do you keep pushing the brakes?" Here, the "green light" symbolizes the speaker's love for the listener This variation in expression highlights the use of conceptual metaphors, which enrich communication by making it more vivid and profound.
Metaphors play a significant role in both literature and everyday language, particularly in idioms related to love and the zest for life Vietnamese and English idioms are rich in conceptual metaphors; however, cultural, lifestyle, and cognitive differences lead to variations in metaphor types, even when the meanings are similar Examining specific idioms reveals the unique metaphorical expressions present in each language.
(1) Jules and Nora are a match made in heaven They love doing things together and cannot bear to be away from each other
(2) Ai nói chi chàng chớ có nghe, ông tơ bà nguyệt đã xe ta rồi
(3) Their marriage was on the rocks as they couldn't get along with each other anymore and were having huge arguments very frequently
(4) Cơm chả lành, canh chả ngọt
(5) Có công mài sắt có ngày nên kim
Many idioms reflect common conceptual metaphors, illustrating how language conveys deeper meanings For instance, the idiom "match made in heaven" utilizes the metaphor of heaven to signify a couple's strong compatibility in love, where love serves as the target domain and heaven as the source domain Similarly, the Vietnamese idiom "ông tơ bà nguyệt" employs the same HEAVEN metaphor to express love, yet it is unique to Vietnamese culture, unlike the universal concept of heaven Additionally, the idioms "on the rocks" and "cơm chả lành canh chả ngọt" both describe conflicts in romantic relationships but utilize different metaphors: the former employs an object metaphor, while the latter uses a flavor metaphor Furthermore, the idiom involving "KIM" and "SẮT" also exemplifies the object metaphor to conceptualize love.
This research explores the conceptualization of love and the desire for life through English and Vietnamese idioms, highlighting the similarities and differences in their metaphors By examining these idiomatic expressions, the study aims to uncover the cultural nuances that shape the understanding of love and life in both languages.
― Conceptual Metaphors in English and Vietnamese Idiomatic Expressions
This study aims to enhance the understanding of conceptual metaphors found in Vietnamese and English idioms associated with love and the desire for life.
AIM AND OBJECTIVES
This study focuses on identifying idioms related to love and the desire for life, while also exploring the similarities and differences in the conceptual metaphors found in English and Vietnamese idioms.
In order to achieve the aim of this research, the thesis concentrates on:
- Identifying specifically the conceptual metaphors of love and desire for life in English and Vietnamese
- Describing how the concept of love and desire for life is metaphorically expressed in English and Vietnamese idioms
- Comparing the conceptual metaphor of love and desire for life between English and Vietnamese idioms.
RESEARCH QUESTIONS
In order to fulfil the objective above, the analysis will answer these research questions:
1 How are the conceptual metaphors of love and desire for life expressed in English and Vietnamese idioms?
2 What are the similarities and differences of the conceptual metaphors of love and desire for life between English and Vietnamese idioms?
SCOPE OF THE STUDY
This study explores the conceptual metaphors of love and desire for life as expressed in English and Vietnamese idioms It provides a detailed analysis of these metaphors, focusing exclusively on idiomatic expressions rather than literary works such as poems or short stories By examining these idioms, the research aims to deepen the understanding of how love and desire are conceptualized in both languages.
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
People often showcase their extensive knowledge on topics through impressive speech, frequently incorporating idioms related to love and the zest for life Love and the desire for life are timeless themes in human existence However, many individuals use English and Vietnamese idioms about these themes mechanically, lacking a true understanding of their essence This study aims to enhance comprehension of conceptual metaphors, particularly those concerning love and desire for life, by identifying and analyzing these metaphors in both English and Vietnamese idioms.
ORGANIZATION OF THE STUDY
This thesis is organized into five chapters as follow:
Chapter 1, INTRODUCTION, presents the rationale, the aims and objectives of the study, the research questions, the scope, the significance and the organization of the study
Chapter 2, LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL
This article provides an overview of previous studies on conceptual metaphors, focusing on their definitions, classifications, and domains related to love and the desire for life It explores English and Vietnamese idioms that express these themes, highlighting both their similarities and unique characteristics Additionally, the article includes specific examples of idioms from each language to illustrate these concepts effectively.
Chapter 3, RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY, describes the intended process of the study that is the design, methods, research procedures, data collection and data analysis
Chapter 4, FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION, explores the metaphors related to love and the desire for life found in English and Vietnamese idioms, highlighting their usage It also addresses the similarities and differences between these idiomatic expressions in both languages.
Chapter 5 concludes the study by summarizing the key findings and discussing the implications of learning and using idioms related to love and desire in life.
LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL
LITERATURE REVIEW
Metaphor has long been a prevalent element in literature and everyday language, attracting extensive study from various perspectives While philosophers often regard language as literal and see metaphor as an exception reserved for poetry, cognitive linguists argue that metaphor plays a crucial role in shaping meaning and reflects our embodied understanding of experiences.
The most elemental theory of metaphor originated from the Greek philosopher Aristotle (383-322 B.C), who is credited with introducing the word
―metaphor‖ in two of his major treatises (Rhetoric and Poetics, 1997) In Greek,
―metaphor‖ means ―to carry beyond‖ or ―to deliver‖ This meaning refers to an implied comparison or transference of meaning between two objects formulated as
Aristotle defined metaphor as the transfer of a word's significance across different categories, such as from genus to species or through analogy He emphasized that metaphor differs fundamentally from everyday language, highlighting its unique role in communication.
Ivor Armstrong Richards (1936) is one of the lecturers who doubted the traditional viewpoint of metaphor He introduced the technical terms ―vehicle‖ and
In their influential book "Metaphors We Live By," George Lakoff and Mark Johnson (1980) explore the concept of "tenor," which refers to the underlying idea that a metaphor illustrates or illuminates This foundational term is essential for understanding how metaphors shape our perceptions and experiences.
―Metaphors We Live By‖, which revolutionized the field of cognitive linguistics Lakoff and Johnson clearly stated their opinion about metaphor:
Metaphor has traditionally been seen as a linguistic feature, focusing on words rather than encompassing broader aspects of thought and action Recent studies reveal that metaphor is deeply ingrained in our daily lives, influencing not only language but also our conceptual frameworks and behaviors Our everyday thinking and actions are fundamentally shaped by metaphorical concepts, highlighting their pervasive role in human experience.
Lakoff and Johnson's research has significantly influenced the study of conceptual metaphors, particularly those related to ARGUMENT, TIME, LIFE, and LOVE These metaphors are frequently employed in everyday language, often without conscious awareness, highlighting their pervasive nature Linguists have extensively analyzed these conceptual metaphors, underscoring their importance in communication (Lakoff and Johnson, 1980, p 3) Zoltán Kövecses has also contributed to this field, further exploring the implications of metaphorical language in our daily interactions.
In 2002, research highlighted the significance of conceptual metaphors from a cognitive perspective, emphasizing their crucial role in our cognitive processes Specifically, the study provided an in-depth analysis of conceptual metaphors related to LOVE, shedding light on their impact in understanding human emotions and relationships.
―Metaphors of Anger, Pride and Love: A Lexical Approach to the Structure of
In Vietnam, the study of conceptual metaphors has garnered significant attention from researchers, including Ly Toan Thang, Nguyen Duc Ton (2007), and Nguyen Lai (2009) Notably, Phan The Hung's article titled "Ån dụ ý niệm" (2007) has also made a substantial contribution to this field of study.
Numerous publications have delved into the intricacies of conceptual metaphors, including Nguyen Lai's 2009 work, "Thinking about conceptual metaphors in the poetic world from the perspective of cognitive linguistics," and the study by Phan Van Hoa and Nguyen, which investigates conceptual metaphors related to life, death, and time in both English and Vietnamese These studies highlight the significance of conceptual metaphors in understanding language and cultural perspectives.
In their 2010 study, Thị Tu Trinh examined the conceptual metaphor "Love is a journey" in both English and Vietnamese This research, conducted by Phan Van Hoa and Ho Trinh Quynh Thu in 2011, highlights the linguistic and cultural nuances surrounding the metaphor of love as a journey, contributing to our understanding of how different languages express this universal theme The findings are discussed in the context of linguistics and life.
Vol 9 (191), p 15) Moreover, Le Thi My Nhat (2002) investigated ―The
Metaphoric Devices in English and Vietnamese Proverbs‖ Ho Vi Nu My Linh
In 2011, research on "Metaphor in Newspapers" compared English and Vietnamese, while Nguyen Thị Thanh Huyen's 2009 study, supervised by Assoc Prof Tran Van Co, explored "Perceptual Metaphors - A Model of Structural Metaphors in the Lyrics of Trinh Cong Son."
The exploration of conceptual metaphors in Vietnamese and English idioms has been a significant focus, highlighting their practical implications in both literature and daily communication Idioms, characterized by their straightforward structure, effectively incorporate various metaphors, enhancing their depth and appeal This intriguing subject has attracted considerable scholarly attention, resulting in a wealth of research papers dedicated to the analysis of idiomatic expressions.
In 2016, Tran The Phi conducted research titled "Conceptual Metaphors of Emotions in Vietnamese Idioms (Compared to English Idioms)." This study explores the intricate relationship between language and emotion through the lens of idiomatic expressions in both Vietnamese and English.
Thi Thu Ba (2011) conducted a research with the title ―An investigation into
English and Vietnamese idioms containing words denoting time‖
In his 2017 research, Nguyen Tan Thanh examines the conceptual metaphors of love in "The Tale of Kieu" by Nguyen Du, alongside its English translations by Michael Counsel and Huynh Sanh Thong The study focuses on identifying metaphorical elements in the original text and comparing them with the translations, highlighting the differences between the two versions Additionally, Thanh explores various stylistic devices and other conceptual metaphors, contributing to a deeper understanding of the portrayal of love in the work.
Nguyen Thi Mong Cam (2012) conducted a thesis titled "An Investigation in English and Vietnamese Idioms Related to Love and Marriage," focusing on the syntactic, stylistic, and semantic characteristics of idioms associated with love and marriage in both languages Her research reveals notable similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese expressions in this thematic area.
This article explores nine key differences between love and marriage in English and Vietnamese cultures, highlighting specific aspects without delving into the metaphors present in idiomatic expressions The focus remains narrowed to select elements of the thesis, providing a concise comparison of these two distinct cultural perspectives on romantic relationships.
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
To grasp the essence of conceptual metaphor, it is essential to explore its origins, definitions, and purposes The term "conceptual" plays a crucial role in cognitive linguistics, serving as the foundation for understanding conceptual metaphors According to Tran Van, this foundational aspect underscores the significance of conceptual metaphors in language and thought.
According to Co (2007), the term "conceptual" is rooted in human consciousness, where cognitive science suggests that individuals primarily think in terms of concepts that encompass both ideas and associated imagery, as well as cultural elements This indicates that conceptual metaphors are deeply intertwined with human thought and awareness The foundation of these concepts lies in the direct emotional experiences individuals acquire while interacting with society and the external world through their senses.
Conceptual metaphor serves as a vital cognitive process for conceptualization, enabling the expression and formation of new ideas Without this mechanism, the development of new knowledge would not be possible.
Conceptual metaphor serves as a lens through which individuals interpret their experiences and perceptions of the world It encapsulates the knowledge people acquire throughout their lives, translating complex ideas into relatable concepts By linking abstract notions to tangible experiences, conceptual metaphors enhance understanding and communication, making intricate ideas more accessible.
Conceptual metaphor plays a significant role in literature, poetry, idioms, and everyday language, serving as a fundamental aspect of cognitive linguistics It is defined as a figurative comparison where one thing is represented by another, often revealing hidden similarities or providing clarity According to Wikipedia, metaphors are rhetorical devices that enhance understanding by linking disparate ideas They are frequently contrasted with other forms of figurative language, including antithesis, hyperbole, metonymy, and simile.
The ―All the world's a stage‖ monologue from William Shakespeare’s ―As
You Like It‖ is one of the most commonly cited examples of a metaphor
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances
This quote shows several metaphors such as “all the world‟s a stage”, which means that the world in the eyes of a playwright is like a stage; then, the metaphor
The phrase "all the men and women merely players" illustrates that individuals in society act as characters within a grand play, highlighting the parallels between the concepts of "world" and "stage."
Lakoff and Johnson (1980) argued that “the essence of metaphors is understanding and experiencing one kind of thing in terms of another.” They said:
Metaphor extends beyond mere language; it fundamentally shapes human thought processes Our argument emphasizes that the human conceptual system is inherently metaphorical, meaning that linguistic metaphors arise from deeper metaphorical structures within our minds As noted by Lakoff and Johnson (1980), this interconnectedness highlights the significance of metaphors in understanding human cognition.
Considering the basis of all metaphors the concept, Lakoff and Johnson named their theory of metaphors the ―conceptual metaphor‖ It is also called
―cognitive metaphor‖ because this new concept of metaphor lies in the school of cognitive linguistics
In the cognitive linguistic view, metaphor is defined as understanding one conceptual domain A in terms of another conceptual domain B (Kửvecses, 2002, p
In fact, in conceptual metaphor there exist ―Source Domain‖ (A) and ―Target
Domain‖ (B), which (A) is understood through (B) (Kửvecses, 2002, p.4) The
In conceptual metaphors, the "Source Domain" encompasses abstract ideas such as life, love, and arguments, while the "Target Domain" includes tangible concepts like fire, vegetation, and journeys The connection between these domains is known as "Mapping." A prominent example of this can be found in Lakoff and Johnson's "Metaphors We Live By" (1980), where the metaphor "Love is a patient" illustrates how "Love" serves as the target domain and "Patient" as the source domain, leading to various linguistic expressions that convey this relationship.
They have a strong, healthy marriage
The marriage is dead—it can’t be revived
Their marriage is on the mend
We’re getting back on our feet
Their relationship is in really good shape
They’ve got a listless marriage
Their marriage is on its last legs
The above conceptual correspondence between two domains shows the same properties The source domain ―Patient‖ has some properties like ―sick‖, ―strong‖,
―healthy‖, ―dead‖, ―revived‖, ―on the mend‖, ―back on your feet‖, ―in really good shape‖, listless, on its last legs, tired which are assigned to the target domain
Although "Love" and "Patience" may initially appear unrelated, they share significant similarities upon closer examination By exploring their connections, we can better understand how these two concepts intertwine in meaningful ways.
Table 2.1 The metaphorical correspondences between
Source Domain and Target Domain
The Lovers are sick in love strong, healthy marriage
The marriage can’t be revived marriage is on the mend
The lovers are getting back on their feet
The relationship is in really good shape a listless marriage
The marriage is on its last legs a tired affair
Patients experience a range of health conditions, from being robust and healthy to facing serious challenges While some may be on the path to recovery, others find their health in critical condition, struggling to regain strength Despite the hurdles, many patients are gradually getting back on their feet, indicating a positive shift in their overall well-being However, some face a listless spirit, and their health may feel like it is on its last legs, highlighting the complexities of their journey towards a healthier life.
This set of correspondences helps us to comprehend more about the abstract concept of ―Love‖
Furthermore, to determine what expressions are metaphors, a group of researchers called Pragglejaz Group (2007) listed four steps of MIP as follows:
1 Read the entire text/discourse to establish a general understanding of the meaning
2 Determine the lexical units in the text/discourse
3 a For each lexical unit in the text, establish its meaning in context, i.e how it applies to an entity, relation or attribute in the situation evoked by the text (contextual meaning) Take into account what comes before and after the lexical unit b For each lexical unit, determine if it has a more basic contemporary meaning in other contexts than the one in the given context For our purposes, basic meanings tend to be:
- more concrete; what they evoke is easier to imagine, see, hear, feel, smell, and taste;
- more precise (as opposed to vague);
Basic meanings of lexical units are not always their most common interpretations When a lexical unit has a more fundamental contemporary meaning in different contexts, it is essential to evaluate whether this contextual meaning diverges from the basic meaning while still allowing for a comparative understanding.
4 If yes, mark the lexical unit as metaphorical
According to Lakoff and Johnson (1890), conceptual metaphors are divided into four basic categories: structural metaphors, ontological metaphors, orientational metaphors and conduit metaphors
Structural metaphors involve understanding one concept through the framework of another, effectively reshaping the target domain's semantics This process allows for a deeper comprehension of complex ideas by linking them to more familiar concepts, enhancing clarity and insight.
The metaphor "Love is madness" illustrates a fascinating connection between two seemingly unrelated domains: love as the target domain and madness as the source domain Despite their lack of direct relation in semantics, both concepts share significant similarities in various properties This intriguing juxtaposition highlights how mapping can reveal new attributes and deepen our understanding of complex emotions.
She drives me out of my mind
He constantly raves about her
He's gone mad over her
Obviously, the italicized phrases all show the human’s strongly states in love
Ontological metaphors involve the process of transforming abstract concepts into tangible entities that occupy space This type of metaphor allows us to understand our experiences—such as events, actions, ideas, and emotions—as if they were real objects or materials.
The ontological metaphors are useful for different uses, for example, inflation can be seen as a certain object although it is an abstract object Therefore, we have the following cases:
Inflation is lowering our standard of living
If there's much more inflation, we'll never survive
We need to combat inflation
Inflation is backing us into a comer
Inflation is taking its toll at the checkout counter and the gas pump
Buying land is the best way of dealing with inflation
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
RESEARCH METHODS
This study employs both qualitative and quantitative methods to effectively achieve its aims and objectives The qualitative approach is utilized to analyze and describe conceptual metaphors found in idioms, while the quantitative method assesses the frequency of occurrence of source and target domains Additionally, a contrastive method is implemented to compare and describe the conceptual metaphors of love and desire for life in English and Vietnamese idioms.
DATA COLLECTION
The study analyzes idiomatic expressions sourced from various Internet resources and literature, including proverbs, idioms, poems, and short stories It includes 50 English and 50 Vietnamese samples related to "Love," showcasing 20 types of metaphors, as well as 50 English and 50 Vietnamese samples related to "Desire for Life," highlighting 10 types of metaphors.
―Love‖ and ―Desire for life‖ in the samples contain the elements of conceptual metaphors which they are chosen based on conceptual metaphor theory by Lakoff and Johnson (1980)
Here is some steps of data collection:
To effectively find and utilize English and Vietnamese idiomatic expressions, one should explore a variety of resources Key references include "The Dictionary of Current English - Vietnamese Idioms" by La Thanh (1988) and "The Oxford Dictionary of Idioms" (second edition, 2004) Additionally, literature books for grades 1 to 9 and online platforms such as Wikiquote serve as valuable sources It is important to note that contributions to Wikiquote should include quotations, and for encyclopedic information, one should consider editing the corresponding Wikipedia article on Vietnamese idioms.
1ec4yPe0a6iKUMtTtOB9fRh14Xvhi4fYQqSGOUBTP0, https://www.theidioms.com/, https://www.thefreedictionary.com/
(2) Identify the English and Vietnamese idiomatic expressions relating to love and desire for life
(3) Classify the English and Vietnamese idiomatic expressions relating to love and desire for life
(4) Find out the metaphors in the idiomatic expressions, and identify the source domains and the target domains based on the theory of Lakoff and Johnson
(5) Group the metaphors in the idiomatic expressions having the same source domains.
DATA ANALYSIS
To analyse the data, let us check the following steps
- Classifying English and Vietnamese idioms into love and desire for life categories
- Identifying the metaphors in the idioms using the MIP procedure by the Pragglejaz Group (2007) and classifying them into different types
- Analyzing the metaphors in the idioms to find out the frequency of the types of metaphors
- Comparing and contrasting the English and Vietnamese idioms in love and desire for life
- Pointing out the similarities and differences of metaphor usage in English and Vietnamese idioms of love and desire for life
RESEARCH PROCEDURES
To achieve the goal of the study, the study is conducted according to the following steps:
First, the researcher reviews the previous studies which are related to those themes generally
Second, the researcher collects Vietnamese and English idioms relating to love and desire for life
Next, the researcher investigates the expressions in the idioms conceptualize the abstract domains ―Love‖ and ―Desire for Life‖ based on the conceptual metaphor theory by Lakoff and Johnson (1980)
In conclusion, the researcher identifies the most prevalent metaphors related to love and the desire for life, highlighting both the similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese idioms in these themes.
SUMMARY
This chapter is significant as it outlines effective methods for conducting the study It details the procedures for data collection and analysis, which are crucial for achieving the study's objectives.
The qualitative and quantitative approach is essential for effective data collection and sample selection in the study Additionally, comparative and contrastive methods are crucial for identifying similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese idioms related to love and the desire for life Another key method employed is the descriptive method, which facilitates the analysis of metaphorical expressions associated with love and life aspirations The findings from this research will be elaborated upon in the subsequent chapter.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
CONCEPTUAL METAPHORS IN ENGLISH AND VIETNAMESE
In the metaphor "LOVE IS A JOURNEY," relationships between lovers are often depicted through road-related idioms, symbolizing the long process of love that encompasses care, mistakes, and misunderstandings These elements can lead to both connection and separation, illustrating the complexities of romantic relationships Exploring various idioms can provide deeper insights into this journey of love.
Among fifty English idioms used for the study, there is only one case with the LOVE IS A JOURNEY metaphor, making it 2% of the data
The idiom, which originated in Ireland, conveys that the journey feels shorter for two lovers, regardless of its length It emphasizes that life becomes more enjoyable when one has a dependable companion, particularly a loved one.
There are two idioms matching the LOVE IS A JOURNEY metaphor, making up 4% of the chosen Vietnamese idioms
(2) Chàng sẽ đi cùng trời cuối đất để tìm gặp lại nàng
The sentence incorporates a well-known idiom that reflects the essence of love, demonstrating its significance within the given context This phrase captures the depth of affection and connection, emphasizing how love influences our emotions and actions By understanding the idiom's meaning, we can appreciate the profound impact love has in our lives.
In expressing boundless love, the phrases "cùng" and "cuối" symbolize an unwavering commitment, illustrating that no challenge is too great The young man is resolute in his determination to seek her out, willing to traverse both heaven and earth to be by her side.
In the metaphor "LOVE IS AN OBJECT," love is perceived as a tangible entity that individuals can interact with, exchange, and possess This concept is effectively illustrated through various nouns and verbs, highlighting the physicality of love For instance, idioms related to love often emphasize its manipulable nature, reinforcing the idea that love can be given, received, and even lost.
In fifty chosen idioms, this type accounts for 8% of the examined data which equals four cases and two of them are discussed below
(3) Their marriage was on the rocks as they couldn't get along with each other anymore and were having huge arguments very frequently
The idiom "on the rocks" originated from ships that were stranded and wrecked on rocks, and since the late 1800s, it has been used figuratively to describe disasters or significant problems This phrase often signifies a troubled relationship that is nearing its end, emphasizing the precarious situation implied by the word "rock."
(4) Terry has been carrying a torch for Liz for years, but she seems not to notice
Terry has secretly loved Liz for a long time, yet she remains unaware of his feelings The idiom "carrying a torch for" perfectly captures his unrequited love, using the metaphor of a "torch" to symbolize the enduring emotions one holds for another person.
The LOVE IS AN OBJECT metaphor appears in two of Vietnamese idioms
29 chosen for the study, making up 4% of the examined data
(5) Trâu tìm cọc, cọc chẳng tìm trâu
The idiom reflects contemporary moral views on love, where "trâu" symbolizes a man who actively pursues romantic relationships, and "cọc" represents a woman who remains passive in matters of love This expression highlights the traditional notion that men typically take the initiative to confess their feelings and flirt, while women are often seen as waiting for love to come to them.
The LOVE IS FIRE metaphor is a widely recognized concept in both English and Vietnamese idioms, symbolizing love as an eternal source of life Fire represents passion and strong emotions, with its intensity reflecting the depth of love experienced A strong flame signifies intense love, while a weak flame suggests a fading affection, and an extinguished fire indicates the end of a relationship This metaphor effectively captures the dynamic nature of love through vivid imagery.
Two of the examined English idioms contain the LOVE IS FIRE metaphor, making up 4% of the data
(6) I was worried that they wouldn’t like each other but in fact they’re getting on like a house on fire
(7) Yeah, Ben is his old flame —they dated last summer
The idiom "getting on like a house on fire" signifies that two individuals quickly develop a strong interest in each other, leading to a fast-tracked relationship This expression employs the imagery of "fire" to illustrate the intensity and positivity of their connection.
―old flame ‖ means a former lover Because fire stands for the feelings of people when they love, ―old flame ‖ is the metaphor for the ex-lover
There is only one idiom within fifty samples containing the LOVE IS FIRE metaphor, making it 2% of the examined data
(8) Lửa gần rơm lâu ngày cũng bén
The idiom comparing love to fire and straw illustrates the gradual development of feelings between a man and a woman Initially, the man may not feel attracted to the woman, but as they spend more time together, his affection grows, supported by research indicating that frequent interactions enhance attraction This concept parallels the idea of "love at first sight" and the saying "small rain lays great dust," highlighting how the flammable straw (representing the woman) ignites when close to fire (representing the man), symbolizing how love can blossom through proximity.
In the metaphor of LOVE IS A UNITY, unity is essential in all relationships Love, being a profound human emotion, fosters a sense of togetherness, leading individuals to perceive it as a singular, inseparable entity When love is abundant, it transcends individuality, creating a unified bond that strengthens connections between people.
The LOVE IS A UNITY metaphor appears in five samples, which accounts for 10% of the studied data
(9) The words she said cut me to the heart
The heart is profoundly affected by human emotions, often fluttering or racing when in the presence of a loved one This connection highlights the idiom that equates emotional pain with the act of cutting someone's heart, illustrating how love can lead to feelings of fragmentation and heartbreak, leaving an otherwise intact heart shattered.
6% of the examined data is the idioms having the LOVE IS A UNITY metaphor, equalling three idioms out of fifty samples
In Vietnamese culture, the mirror, or "gương," holds a sacred significance, symbolizing deeper meanings in relationships A broken mirror is seen as an ominous sign, often foreshadowing misfortune, particularly in love The expression that a broken mirror can heal reflects the journey of a relationship, suggesting that after a breakup, reconciliation and unity can occur Ultimately, love is portrayed as a cycle of separation and reunion, emphasizing its profound connection.
In both Buddhism and Christianity, "heaven" is viewed as a magnificent realm where individuals can thrive and fulfill their dreams Similarly, "love" is a recurring theme often associated with heaven, highlighting their interconnectedness This article explores the parallels between love and heaven, revealing the shared qualities that bind these two profound concepts together.
Table 4.1 Conceptual metaphorical mapping of the source domain “ Heaven ” and the target domain “ Love ”
Possessions subsisting on the heaven
Happy dreams Damsel whom the guy loves Possessions related to the lovers
Within fifty chosen idioms, two examples include the LOVE IS HEAVEN metaphor, which is 4% of the total
(11) My brother and his wife are not only very supportive of each other, but they also have similar interests They are truly a match made in heaven
(12) I’ve been in seventh heaven ever since I got engaged
CONCEPTUAL METAPHORS IN ENGLISH AND VIETNAMESE
IDIOMS RELATING TO DESIRE FOR LIFE
4.2.1 Desire for Life is an object
An object is a tangible item that can be physically interacted with, capable of causing harm or influencing individuals Additionally, certain objects can foster trust and motivation among people, making them powerful symbols of our desire for connection and life This concept can be illustrated through various scenarios.
There are six English idioms containing the DESIRE FOR LIFE IS AN OBJECT metaphor in 50 chosen idioms They make up 12% in the total of the idioms
(71) I have to say, Sarah has been as steady as a rock during this whole ordeal
(72) With your grades and extra curriculars, you'll have the ball at your feet in your college search
The idioms reflect the human desire for life as tangible objects, yet they embody deeper characteristics The phrase "as steady as a rock" describes individuals who remain determined despite facing numerous challenges Just as a rock is solid, enduring, and resilient, these qualities parallel essential human traits, illustrating the strength and steadfastness inherent in people.
The idiom "the ball at your feet" effectively illustrates the concept of "desire for life," symbolizing good opportunities for success In football, having the ball at a player's feet increases their chances of winning, reflecting how the desire for life is represented through this imagery.
The study identifies six Vietnamese idioms that embody the metaphor of DESIRE FOR LIFE IS AN OBJECT, accounting for 12% of the analyzed idioms Two representative samples are discussed in detail.
(74) Chuông có gõ mới kêu, đèn có khêu mới rạng
(77) Có công mài sắt có ngày nên kim
The idiom "chân cứng đá mềm" uses the metaphor of a hard rock and human feet to convey a powerful message about perseverance While rocks are inherently hard, the expression suggests that with patience and determination, individuals can overcome challenges This reflects the idea that, just as hard work can soften the metaphorical rock, a strong will symbolizes the desire to succeed in life.
The idiom encapsulates a timeless truth through relatable symbols like "sắt" (iron) and "kim" (needle), illustrating the transformation of a rough iron bar into a useful needle through immense effort and perseverance This serves as a heartfelt reminder from previous generations to the next: success is attainable through determination and hard work, regardless of the obstacles faced The needle represents life's aspirations, while the iron bar signifies the challenges encountered along the journey.
4.2.2 Desire for Life is an animal
In various cultures, animals embody specific human traits, with the buffalo symbolizing profound suffering, as reflected in the phrase "suffering like a buffalo." Similarly, the agile mouse represents cleverness This use of animals as metaphors highlights their connection to human aspirations and experiences.
The DESIRE FOR LIFE IS AN ANIMAL metaphor appears in four samples out of fifty chosen idioms, making up 8% in the total of the idioms
(78) We must be as patient as an ox if we wish to labour in the artistic
Oxen are renowned for their resilience and ability to endure hardships, often working alongside humans in agricultural fields Despite their slower pace and lower productivity, they are valued for their strength and reliability, making them essential in farming practices.
―patient‖ animal By ploughing slowly but steadily, they always achieve their aim The desire for life is shown by the patience of the ox
(79) You've been complaining about being out of work for too long- it's time to take the bull by the horns and go find a job
The phrase "take the bull by the horns" serves as a powerful metaphor, symbolizing courage and bravery in confronting challenges It emphasizes the importance of tackling difficult tasks head-on, without hesitation or fear.
With the numbers of six idioms containing this metaphor type, it occupies 12% of the collected idioms
The idiom conveys two meanings: literally, it suggests that birds seek out peaceful lands abundant in food and safety to build their nests Figuratively, it implies that tranquil environments with favorable living conditions attract more people than chaotic ones, reflecting a universal desire for a peaceful life The imagery of "birds" symbolizes this aspiration for a harmonious existence.
4.2.3 Desire for Life is a container
A container is simply something that can hold It is the good source domain in metaphor to show the good target domain of desire for life
Among fifty idioms, there are four idioms having the DESIRE FOR LIFE IS
A CONTAINER metaphor with 8% in the total of the idioms
Third-place City, with a game in hand, faces a significant setback in its quest for a second championship in three seasons after an unexpected loss to Sunderland and a 3-2 defeat against Liverpool on Sunday.
(82) He exactly covered himself with glory in his last job
(83) To be full of life
The phrase "full of life" encapsulates the profound desire for existence, symbolizing a vessel brimming with happiness This expression reflects the overwhelming joy that can fill one's life, representing individuals who embody enthusiasm and vitality It signifies an unwavering desire to embrace life, regardless of the challenges that may arise.
The number of the idioms involving the DESIRE FOR LIFE IS A CONTAINER metaphor is seven corresponding to 14% of the examined data
The idiom emphasizes a universal desire for life, symbolized by "bốn bể," which represents the world's four major oceans, and "năm châu," referring to the five continents This expression inspires an optimistic perspective, suggesting that individuals can thrive anywhere and view "bốn bể năm châu" as their home.
(85) Đi một ngày đàng, học một sàng khôn
A "sàng" is a round bamboo tool with small holes, commonly used for cleaning rice, husks, and broken grains This term is often referenced in an idiom that symbolizes the desire to live, suggesting that exploring the world enriches individuals with valuable knowledge and experiences As people venture further into society and strive to do their best, they accumulate wisdom and skills, illustrating the essence of the learning process.
4.2.4 Desire for Life is a valuable commodity
When discussing valuable commodities, we typically consider items like money and gold Both Vietnamese and English idioms utilize the concept of "valuable commodities" to represent the deeper idea of "desire for life." This connection highlights that human aspirations are often linked to these valuable items, effectively allowing us to conceptualize our desire for life through the lens of material worth.