Rational of the study
English is the most widely spoken language globally, with around 350 million native speakers and an equal number of individuals using it as a second language.
In Vietnam, English is increasingly recognized as a vital tool for international communication, leading to a growing urgency in learning the language Both foreign and Vietnamese learners aspire to speak English fluently like native speakers, yet they encounter numerous challenges that hinder effective conversations A significant factor contributing to these difficulties is the understanding and usage of idioms.
Idioms play a crucial role in everyday communication, yet their deeper meanings remain unclear to many A study focusing on idioms in both Vietnamese and English can significantly enhance language learners' understanding, particularly for students studying English These idiomatic expressions are not only essential lexical items but also reflect the cultural nuances of different ethnic groups They add vibrancy and richness to the English language, making them prevalent in the speech and writing of native speakers, including in news, songs, and movies However, understanding and interpreting these idioms can often be challenging.
Both English and Vietnamese languages are rich in imagery, particularly in their use of animal-related idioms These idioms reflect shared cognitive processes and universal moral values across both cultures Certain animals hold similar significance in the lives of people from both backgrounds, exhibiting comparable attributes and characteristics As a result, there exists a substantial number of analogous idioms that convey similar meanings and forms in both languages This observation motivates me, as a student in the foreign languages department at Vinh University, to explore the topic of "Idioms of Comparison in English and Vietnamese" for my thesis.
This study explores the semantic and syntactic characteristics of animal-related idioms in both English and Vietnamese, highlighting their similarities and differences The findings aim to assist Vietnamese learners of English in effectively using idioms in communication, enhancing the naturalness, creativity, and expressiveness of their speech.
Aims of the study
The first aim is to identify the similarities and differences between animal related idioms in Vietnamese and English
The second aim is to explore their idiomatic meanings in English and Vietnamese Another aim is to gain a deeper understanding about the cultural contrast between the two languages
The goal is to assist students in translating idioms by providing them with specific learning materials Additionally, we offer suggestions on effective methods for teaching and translating these idiomatic expressions.
The last aim is to provide a collection of English and Vietnamese idioms.
Objective of the study
With the aims mentioned above, the study tries to reach the following objectives:
- Investigating stylistic and semantic features of English and Vietnamese idioms related to animals
- Finding out the similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese related to animals
- Making some suggestions for teaching, learning and translating of English and Vietnamese idioms.
Scope of the study
Idioms play a significant role in both English and Vietnamese languages, reflecting cultural nuances This study aims to analyze specific animal-related idioms that encapsulate the essence of Vietnamese and English cultures, acknowledging the limitations of time and resources in covering all idiomatic expressions.
Methods of the study
I conducted extensive research on English and Vietnamese comparative idioms related to animals, compiling a comprehensive list found in the appendix This study aims to analyze and compare the syntactic and semantic features of these idioms in both languages, drawing implications for the teaching and learning of English and Vietnamese as foreign languages To achieve these goals, I employed descriptive and comparative research methods.
The descriptive method effectively details the syntactic and semantic characteristics of animal-related idioms, utilizing examples gathered from various sources such as books, stories, novels, dictionaries, and online websites.
In addition, the comparative method could be used to identify the similarities and differences in the syntactic and semantic features of idioms related to animals in English versus Vietnamese
The integration of descriptive and contrastive methods reveals both the syntactic and semantic similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese idioms that pertain to animals.
Orgnanization of the study
The thesis comprises of three main parts:
The first part is Introduction This part presents the rationale, the aims, objective, the scope, the methods and the organization of the study
The second section of the article focuses on Development, which is divided into two key chapters The first chapter presents a literature review and the theoretical background of the study, while the second chapter discusses the findings and insights derived from the research.
The last part is Conclusion and some suggestions for teaching and learning English Idioms This part comprises of the conlusion, the implication the limitation and suggestion for further study
LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
Review of previous study
1.1.1 Previous studies of English idioms in foreign countries
Idioms play a crucial role in the communication of native English speakers and learners of other languages, making them a significant focus for numerous language researchers.
In English, we can mentions some writers and linguists since the 1950s such as W.Mc.Mordie (1954), V.II.Collins (1958), Robert J.Dixon(1971), D.A.Cruse (1987)
In fact, idiom is not a new subject in lingustic study A traditional view of idioms is homophonous with grammatically well-formed transparent expressions, which is in
Idioms have captivated language researchers globally due to their significance in achieving native-like fluency in English, both for native speakers and learners of the language Notable works, such as "Idioms," highlight their essential role in effective communication.
Wright's "Organization," along with Ammer's "The American Heritage Dictionary of Idioms" and Jenifer Speake's "Oxford Dictionary of English Idioms," offers learners a comprehensive collection of modern idioms These resources provide clear explanations and contextual examples, making it easier for users to understand and apply idiomatic expressions in everyday language.
What is more, there is also in “Essential Idioms in English”, by Dixon, or “Idioms for Everyday use” by Broukal, M and so on
1.1.2 Previous studies of English and Vietnamese idioms in Vietnam
For some recent decades, Vietnam idioms have been recognized, collected and explained systematically
Vietnamese idioms have garnered significant interest from researchers, notably Đỗ Hữu Châu, who examines their semantic and syntactic characteristics in "Từ vựng, ngữ pháp Tiếng Việt." Additionally, Nguyễn Trần Thu's "Thành ngữ, tục ngữ lược giải" provides clear and accessible explanations of common idioms and proverbs, making it a valuable resource for learners seeking consultation and reference.
Numerous collections of Vietnamese idioms exist, including "Từ ngữ, tục ngữ Việt Nam" by Đặng Hồng Chương and "1575 thành ngữ, tục ngữ cần bàn thêm" by Lê Gia.
In addition,“Thành Ngữ và Tục Ngữ Việt Nam Chọn Lọc” by Trần Quang Mân,
“Từ Điển Thành Ngữ Anh Việt” by Lã Thành, “Từ Điển Thành Ngữ Tiếng Anh” by Vĩnh Bá, Hoàng Văn Hành with “Thành Ngữ Học Tiếng Việt”
Despite the lack of recent studies on idioms, this research aims to explore the semantic and syntactic features of idioms in both English and Vietnamese.
Theoretical backgrougd
Idioms is a combination of stable words both in English and Vietnamese such as
The phrase "a friend in need is a friend indeed" emphasizes the value of true friendship during difficult times Similarly, "see eye to eye" signifies mutual understanding and agreement between individuals The Vietnamese proverb "một con ngựa đau cả tàu bỏ cỏ" illustrates how the suffering of one can affect the whole group Additionally, "gần mực thì đen gần đèn thì rạng" conveys the idea that one's environment influences behavior and character These idioms highlight the complexities of relationships and the impact of circumstances on human interactions.
English and Vietnamese such as:
According to Oxford Dictionary of Enghlish Idioms, “An idiom is a word or phrase which means something different from what is says”
An idiom consists of a group of words that collectively convey a meaning distinct from the individual meanings of each word when considered separately, as explained by Jenifer and W Mc Mordie in "English Idiom and How to Use."
According to the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary of Current English (Oxford University Press, 1995), an idiom is defined as a phrase or sentence whose meaning cannot be deduced from the meanings of its individual words, and must be understood as a complete unit.
According to the Cambridge Dictionary of American Idioms, an idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning differs from the individual meanings of its components These phrases typically have a fixed structure, making them difficult to alter, and they often carry an informal tone, though they can also include slang or more subtle variations.
In summary, an idiom in English is a phrase that may appear confusing to those unfamiliar with the language Typically, popular sayings qualify as idioms, but translating them can be quite challenging.
In Vietnamese, the term "Hồ Lê" defines an idiom as a stable combination of words that conveys a figurative meaning These idioms are utilized to depict an image, phenomenon, characteristic, or state.
Furthermore, Đái Xuân Ninh defines “An idiom is a set expression whose constituents lose their independence to some extent and combine into a rather complete and stable unit”
Idioms in English and Vietnamese consist of closely combined phrases whose meanings differ significantly from the individual words Additionally, altering, adding, removing, or substituting any components of these idioms would compromise their fundamental meanings.
This article focuses on the syntactic and semantic analysis of idioms in English and Vietnamese, drawing on Cruse's definition of idioms as fixed phrases made up of multiple words, whose meanings cannot be inferred from the meanings of the individual words.
Some authors have classified English idioms into topic groups and countries They have also listed the amount of idioms belonging to each topic or country a Idioms by topic
Animals: the birds and the bees
Body and bodily functions: at arm’s length
Buildings and construction: to drive someone up the wall
Character and appearance: as cold as ice
Children and babies: like a kid in a candy store
Clothes: at the drop of a hat
Drinking and pubs: to turn water in to wine
Drugs: close but no cigar
Food: as cool as a cucumber
Furniture and household fittings: to cut a rug
Gambling: to go for broke
Law: to bring someone to book
Men and women: man in the street
Music: to call the tune
Nationality and ethnicity: for England
Nature: as cold as a stone
Numbers: to feel like a million
Person‟s name: as rich as Croesus
Place name: to set the Thames on fire
Plants and flowers: to gild the lily
Police and crime: to get away with murder
Profession or work: all in a day’s work
Religion: at the bottom of the totem pole
Sex and sexuality: to play the field
Sport: to drop the ball
Technology and science: to hit the airwaves
Transport and travel: to hit the road
War and conflict: war of words
Weather: in a fog b Idioms by country
American English: as mad as a wrongly shot hog
Australian English: to cut down the tall poppies
British English: by a long chalk
Canadian English: The Mountie always gets his man
Indian English: to do the needful
Irish English: Even the dogs in the street know
New Zealand English: across the ditch
Scottish English: to turn the crack c Basing on parts of speech, Jennifer Seidl – W McMordie (1988) gave some groups of idioms as follows:
- Key words with idiomatic uses
Adjectives and adverbs: bad, good, long etc
Nouns: end, line, thing etc
Miscellaneous: all, how, too etc
- Idioms with nouns and adjectives
Noun phrases: a drop in the ocean
Pairs of adjectives: cut and dried
Pairs of nouns: wear and tear
Pairs of adverbs: more or less
Pairs of verbs: hit and miss
Identical pairs: bit by bit
- Idioms with prepositions: by, for, from etc
- Phrasal verbs: act up, call something off, make something up to someone etc
- Verbal idioms: blow one‟s own trumpet, call a spade a spade, do a bunk, etc
- Idioms with key words from special categories
Animals: bird, bee, bull etc
Colours: black, blue, red etc
Numbers, size, measurement: one, inch, mile etc
Parts of the body: arm, back, nose etc
Time: day, minute, night etc
Comparisons with as … as: as bold as brass
Comparisons with like: to go like the wind c Basing on functions, idioms can be also classified as follows:
Idioms often function as noun phrases, conveying rich meanings in a few words For instance, "peace and quiet" refers to a serene state, as in, "It is nice to have some peace and quiet." Similarly, the expression "the cat’s whiskers" signifies something wonderful, exemplified by the sentence, "She thinks she is the cat’s whiskers." Additionally, the phrase "dog’s dinner" describes someone who is overly dressed in a showy manner, illustrated by, "He was dressed up like a dog’s dinner."
Idioms often manifest as verb phrases, such as "to jump out of my skin," which means to experience a sudden shock or surprise, as in "I jumped out of my skin when I heard the bang." Another example is "to get to the bottom of things," indicating the pursuit of uncovering the true explanation or state of affairs.
We need a proper investigation to get the bottom of things
Idioms can function as adjective phrases, conveying specific meanings in a concise manner For instance, the expression "as good as gold" describes someone who is generous, helpful, or well-behaved, as in the sentence, "He is as good as gold." Similarly, the phrase "hard and fast" indicates rules or principles that cannot be altered under any circumstances, exemplified by the statement, "There are no hard and fast rules about this."
- Idioms as adverbial phrases e.g as likely as not (certainly/ surely): He’ll be at home now, as likely as not
- Idioms as prepositional phrases e.g in a black mood (a bad mood/ temper): Gerry is in a black mood
- Idioms as interjections e.g Well, I never!
Vietnamese idioms, as outlined by Luong Van Dang in "Thành ngữ tiếng Việt," can be classified into distinct categories An example of an idiom used as an independent clause is "A little bird told me," which implies that the speaker doesn't need to reveal the source of their information.
Idioms consisting of three or more words, such as "bạn nối khố" (a bosom friend), "bở hơi tai" (fagged out), "treo đầu dê, bán thịt chó" (He cries wine and sells vinegar), and "trẻ không tha, già không thương" (Neither consideration for the young nor the pity for the old), enrich language by conveying complex meanings in a concise manner These expressions reflect cultural nuances and social values, making them essential for effective communication Understanding and using such idioms can enhance one's linguistic skills and deepen cultural appreciation.
- Idioms with a single word and a compound word e.g bé hạt tiêu (little body, great mind) câm miệng hến (mute as a fish) có máu mặt (to be in comfortable circumstances)…
- Idioms with two compound words e.g buôn gian bán lận (to cheat in commerce) nhắm mắt xuôi tay (to die) năm xung tháng hạn (an unpropitious period of time) …
- Idioms as simple sentences e.g châu chấu đá xe (David fights Goliath) êch ngồi đáy giếng (a frog in a well) mèo mù vớ cá rán (The devil looks after his own)…
- Idioms with alliterations or compound words e.g hì hà hì hục (be completely engrossed in) lảm nhảm lảm nhàm (to drivel) ăn bớt ăn xén (to take a stealthy rake off)…
Idioms featuring symmetrical comparisons are prevalent in language, such as "as pastry as soy" (nát như tương), "inky-black" (đen như mực), "as heavy as lead" (nặng như chì), and "to turn away in anger" (nguây nguẩy như mẹ quẩy tôm) These expressions vividly illustrate characteristics by drawing parallels, enriching communication and cultural understanding.
Idioms often convey vivid comparisons that enhance understanding and expression For example, "như cá gặp nước" translates to "like a duck in water," illustrating a sense of comfort and ease in a situation Similarly, "như đỉa phải vôi," or "like a scalded cat," captures the feeling of being startled or panicked Meanwhile, "như nước đổ đầu vịt," meaning "like water off a duck’s back," describes how someone remains unaffected by criticism or negativity These idiomatic expressions enrich language by providing relatable imagery and emotions.
Idioms and other Language Units
A phrase is a concise group of words commonly used together, forming a grammatical unit without a finite verb or subject-predicate structure According to the Longman Dictionary of Language Teaching and Applied Linguistics, a phrase is defined as a group of words that creates a cohesive conceptual unit.
Phrase is a group of words that are used together in a fixed expression
Examples; “take off”, “do away with”
An idiom is a phrase or expression whose meaning differs from the literal interpretation of its individual words These can be single words or combinations of words that convey a unique meaning when used together Examples of idioms include "catch one's eye," "keep one's fingers crossed," and "state of the art."
Collocation refers to the habitual co-occurrence of lexical items, as defined by Cruse It encompasses pairs or groups of words that frequently appear together, forming common expressions.
Collocations refer to the natural combination of words in a language that results in fluent speech and writing For instance, the phrase "pay attention" is preferred over alternatives like "give attention" or "put attention," as it reflects the way native speakers typically express this idea Understanding collocations is essential for achieving natural-sounding language.
An idiom is a phrase whose collective meaning differs from the individual meanings of its words For instance, the expression "it's raining cats and dogs" does not imply that animals are literally falling from the sky; instead, it signifies that it is raining heavily.
A proverb is a traditional saying that conveys shared wisdom or experiences, often reflecting common truths or advice rooted in ancient origins In contrast, an idiom is a culturally specific expression unique to a particular ethnic group While proverbs are widely recognized and understood, idioms carry meanings that may only resonate within specific cultural contexts.
An idiom is a phrase that has a meaning of its own that cannot be understood from the meanings of its individual words
Here are some examples of idioms:
- To be fed up with means to be tired and annoyed with something that has been happening for too long
To rub someone the wrong way means to irritate someone
By the skin of your teeth means that something was successful, but only just barely
A proverb is a short popular saying that gives advice about how people should behave or that expresses a belief that is generally thought to be true
• Don’t cry over spilled milk
• Those who live in glasshouse shouldn’t through stones.
FINDING AND DISCUSSION
Idioms of Comparison in English and Vietnamese: Contrastive Analysis
2.1.1 Similarities of Idioms of Comparison in English and Vietnamese
Idioms of comparison in both English and Vietnamese are a fascinating subject that captivates linguists, with an estimated 700 such idioms present in each language These idioms are frequently used in everyday communication, both spoken and written, and exhibit structural stability They enrich language with figurative and symbolic meanings, adding vividness, emotion, and emphasis, which enhances the engagement of conversations Additionally, idioms of comparison reveal significant cultural insights, offering a deeper understanding of the lifestyles and perspectives of people from different backgrounds.
No culture exists in complete isolation; various cultures often share similar perspectives and thought processes, leading to what are known as "biological and cultural universals." Despite the significant differences between Vietnamese and English cultures, there are instances where their worldviews align This similarity is evident in language, particularly in comparative idioms, where many English idioms have direct equivalents in Vietnamese The following examples highlight these intriguing parallels in idiomatic expressions.
- As black as coal Đen như than
- As black as crow Đen như quạ
- As bright as day Sáng như ban ngày
- As brief as a dream Ngắn như một giấc mộng
- As brilliant as stars Sáng như sao
- As cold as ice Lạnh như đá/băng
- As fierce as a tiger Dữ như cọp
- As firm as rock Vững như bàn thạch
- As fleet as the wind Nhanh như chớp
- As fresh a rose Tươi như hoa
- As green as a leaf Xanh như tàu lá
- As heavy as an elephant Nặng như voi
- As hard as a stone Cứng như đá
- As heavy as lead Nặng như chì
- As hot as fire Nóng như lửa
- As light as down Nhẹ như lông hồng
- As light as a feather Nhẹ như lông hồng
- As pretty as a picture Đẹp như tranh
- As quick as lightning Nhanh như chớp
- As red as blood Đỏ như máu
- As sharp as a razor Sắc như dao cạo
- As stink as a polecat Hôi như chồn
- As swift as lightning Nhanh như chớp
- As smooth as velvet Mượt như nhung
- As slow as a snail Chậm như ốc sên
- As swift as an arrow Nhanh như tên bắn
- As steady as rock Cứng như đá
- As timid as a hare Nhát như thỏ đế
- As thick as ants Nhiều/đông như kiến
- As transparent as glass Trong suốt như thủy tinh
- As yellow as saffron Vàng như nghệ
- As wet as a drowned mouse Ướt như chuột lột
- As white as snow Trắng như tuyết
- As white as a sheet Như tờ giấy trắng
- To fight like cat and dog Như chó với mèo
- To stick like a leech Bám dai như đỉa
- To cry like a baby Khóc như đứa trẻ
- To follow like a shadow Theo như hình với bóng
- To stick like glue Dính như keo
As we can see, there are lots of English idioms of comparison which have exact equivalents in Vietnamese language concerning not only meaning but also vocabulary
In no uncertain terms, such coincident cases somehow make translation a little bit easier
2.1.2 Dissimilarities of Idioms of Comparison in English and Vietnamese
Culture significantly influences language, acting as a mirror that reflects cultural nuances English and Vietnamese cultures exhibit notable differences, leading to variations in language, particularly in idiomatic expressions and comparisons.
2.1.2.1 Images compared are different but the same meanings
We can find lots of English and Vietnamese idioms of comparison which have similar meanings but utilize different comparative images Difference in culture is the major explanation
Vietnamese culture is deeply rooted in the ancient tradition of wet-rice cultivation, which significantly influences the language and idioms used by its people The idioms, often born from the experiences of laborers, reflect the tools and animals integral to their agricultural practices As a result, Vietnamese comparative idioms frequently draw upon familiar elements from their daily farming lives, showcasing the connection between language and the agrarian lifestyle.
Buffaloes hold a significant place in Vietnamese culture, symbolizing strength, hard work, and companionship for farmers These domesticated animals have been invaluable in agriculture, tirelessly plowing paddy fields and representing personal wealth The iconic image of a buffalo tender joyfully playing music while riding on a buffalo’s back epitomizes the serene rural lifestyle In Vietnamese language, expressions like “khỏe như trâu” (strong as a buffalo) and “cực như trâu” (toil like a buffalo) reflect the buffalo's association with diligence and resilience Additionally, buffaloes are celebrated in various folk songs, sayings, and proverbs, highlighting their integral role in Vietnamese life and culture.
In English culture, the phrase “as strong as a horse” reflects the deep connection and familiarity people have with horses, which are seen as versatile and special animals Known for their strength, loyalty, and vigor, horses play significant roles in warfare, transportation, entertainment, and farming Thus, likening a person to a horse signifies their sturdy and energetic nature.
The use of "horses" in English comparative idioms reflects cultural preferences rather than a lack of recognition of the strength of "buffaloes." These linguistic differences highlight how culture influences language.
Similarly, take “as gentle as a lamb” and “hiền như củ khoai” into consideration
Lamb is a staple in English cuisine, while sweet potatoes, known as "khoai," are a common food item in Vietnamese households.
The image of the dragon holds significant power and sacredness in Vietnamese culture, symbolizing strength and vitality The phrase "ăn như rồng cuốn" is commonly used to describe someone who eats rapidly and consumes large quantities of food, reflecting the dragon's fierce and insatiable nature.
On the other hand, for English people, when talking about big appetite, they would like to mention the horse, as in “to eat like a horse”
There are many other cases in which English and Vietnamese idioms, despite having similar meaning, use different images of comparison Below are some illustrations:
English comparative idioms Vietnamse comparative idioms
As dumb as a statue Câm như hến
As easy as ABC Dễ như trở bàn tay
As easy as pie Dễ như trở bàn tay
As easy as anything Dễ như trở bàn tay
As smooth as butter Mượt như nhung
As round as a barrel Tròn như quả bóng
As pale as a ghost Xanh như tàu lá
As soft as wax Mềm như bún
As merry as a cricket Vui như tết
As cheerful as the birds Vui như tết
As glad as a fly Vui như tết
As dark as midnight Tối như đêm ba mươi
As lazy as a lizard Lười như hủi
As strong as a horse Khỏe như trâu
As red as beet Đỏ như gấc
As close as herrings Chặt như nêm
As soundly as a log Say như chết (ngủ)
As cold as marble Lạnh như tiền
As cold as ice Lạnh như tiền
As dry as a bone Khô như ngói
As silent as the dead Im lặng như tờ
As thin as finger Gầy như bộ xương
As weak as a kitten Yếu như sên
As black as the ace of spades Đen như cột nhà cháy
Like hot cake Đắt như tôm tươi (buôn bán)
Cultural differences, living conditions, and diverse perspectives lead to distinct variations in language and idioms For instance, concepts like "ice" and "butter" may seem unfamiliar to Vietnamese individuals, just as terms like "bún" and "mồng tơi" are to those in England These disparities highlight the importance of considering cultural context in translation and language education.
2.1.2.2 Same images of comparison but different meanings
Cultural differences often lead to varying interpretations of the same objects, animals, or phenomena, which can carry positive connotations in one culture and negative ones in another This phenomenon is evident in the many comparative idioms that share similar imagery yet convey distinct meanings in English and Vietnamese.
The idiom "as good as gold" in English refers to a person, typically a child or adult, who is well-behaved and disciplined In contrast, the Vietnamese phrase "Tốt như vàng" describes the high quality of an object rather than a person's character, as it is not used to refer to individuals.
The idiom "as bright as day" in English describes a bright, sunny environment or a well-lit space, while the Vietnamese equivalent "rõ như ban ngày" emphasizes clarity and certainty in a situation, such as saying, "the matter is as clear as day." Additionally, the Vietnamese expression "chắc như đinh đóng cột" conveys the idea of something being steadfast and unchangeable, whereas the English phrase "as hard as nails" typically refers to a strict or tough person.
2.1.2.3 Comparative idioms with images of well-known persons
People frequently compare human traits and appearances to famous figures from literature and history, reflecting cultural identity Each culture has its own iconic characters; for instance, Vietnamese individuals recognize figures like "Cuội," "Hoạn Thư," and "Bụt," while English people are familiar with their own literary heroes This phenomenon highlights the unique characteristics and values embedded within different societies.
“Othello”, “Croesus”, “Larry”, “Adam”, “Lazarus”, “Trojan”,…Because of that fact, each place has very typical and unique phrases as well as comparative idioms
In Vietnamese culture, various idiomatic expressions reflect human behavior and characteristics, such as "Nói dối như Cuội," which describes someone who lies skillfully and frequently, inspired by the tale of Cuội, a master of deception Another phrase, "Nợ như chúa Chổm," refers to a person deeply in debt, originating from the story of Chúa Chổm, who, overwhelmed by his financial obligations, exempted everyone from taxes for a year Other expressions include "Vắng như chùa bà Đanh," meaning deserted or unvisited, "Ghen như Hoạn Thư," denoting intense jealousy, "Sướng như tiên," signifying extreme happiness, and "Hiền như bụt," describing a gentle and helpful nature These idioms enrich the Vietnamese language by vividly illustrating emotions and situations.
Idioms with Animals in English
Mice appear in English idioms and proverbs with negative meaning For instance: a quiet person is compared with a mouse (As quiet as a mouse)
“mouse” is considered to be very poor (As poor as a church mouse) short-sighted (Mouse that has but one hole is quickly taken) and etc
In English, buffaloes are rarely mentioned in idioms and proverbs because they are not native to Britain; instead, expressions frequently reference cows and bulls.
Tiger does not appear a lot in English idioms It also represents strength and power and sometimes denotes something dangerous For example :
- A paper tiger (He who rides a tiger is afraid to dismount.)
In English, “cat” carries both positive and negative connotations
“Cat” can connote an ordinary person (Cat can look at a king) someone in authority (When the cat's away, the mice will play.)
In some idioms, “cat” implies people with bad characters
It is considered to be nervous and unable to keep still (Be like a cat on a hot tin roof) promiscuous (Alley cat) imitative (Copy cat) unfaithful (Cat in the pan)
In English, dragon stands for monster, demon or savage For such consideration, there are few English idioms with the word “dragon” They all bring negative connotations For example:
- It is also used to allude social evil in “Chase the dragon”when the idiom means
In English, snake tends to symbolize the dreaded parts of life
The phrase "snake in the grass" refers to a sneaky and disliked individual, while "It's good to get a serpent's head with your enemy's hand" implies taking advantage of an enemy Additionally, "mad as a cut snake" describes someone who is eccentric or crazy.
The horse has long been part of life in Britain, a nomadic culture Many English words and phrases used today derive from the 15 horse For example:
- “horse” in the following idioms is used to compare with human‟s activities, habits and strength (Work like a horse, Eat like a horse, As strong as a horse)
Goat in English has negative meaning It denotes a lecherous man
On the other hand, goat stands for an irritable person (Get someone's goat) someone who behaves in a silly way, sometimes in order to make people laugh
(act/play the goat) a person of low quality (separate the sheep from the goats)
Certain English idioms describe individuals in various ways, such as being as clever as a wagonload of monkeys, highlighting their artfulness Additionally, someone might be described as being more fun than a barrel of monkeys, emphasizing their humorous nature Lastly, a person exhibiting restlessness and agitation can be likened to a monkey on a stick, illustrating their fidgety demeanor.
The British use terms related to chickens—such as cock, hen, rooster, and chick—less frequently than the Vietnamese In English, "cock" is often associated with defiance, as in "cock a snook at someone," and describes a confident or arrogant man, exemplified by the phrase "cock of the walk." Additionally, it signifies someone who relies on their status, as in "every cock will crow upon his dunghill," and represents a life of abundance, illustrated by the expression "live like a fighting cock."
The British people consider dog as : their dearest pet (Love me, love my dog) their loyal friend (A dog is a man’s best friend)
So, it usually stands for people or things with commendatory senses in some idioms and proverbs
In English, pigs are commonly associated with greed of various forms, including: gluttony (eat like a pig) greed (as greedy as a pig) monopolisation of time or resources (a road hog).
Idioms with Animals in Vietnamese
The Vietnamese people compare human‟s actions with those of “chuột” In the following examples:
“chuột” denotes cowardly people (Chạy như chuột, Len lét như chuột ngày)
Buffaloes symbolize strength and resilience, representing hard-working individuals and those with exceptional physical capabilities Phrases such as "hard-working like a buffalo" and "as strong as a buffalo" highlight their robust nature, emphasizing the value of diligence and endurance in both work and life.
In the Vietnamese culture, it represents: strength and power (Cáo mượn oai hùm, Khoẻ như hùm)
Because of its strength and beauty, “hổ” usually refers to people with : good characters (Hổ phụsinh hổ tử) nice appearance (Râu hùm hàm én)
In Vietnamese idioms, the term "cat" often carries negative connotations when referring to a person It is used to describe someone as dull (e.g., "Chó gio, mèo mù"), a person who conceals malicious intentions (e.g., "Giấu như mèo giấu cứt"), a scamp (e.g., "Mốo mả gà ủồng"), or an unfriendly and quarrelsome individual (e.g., "Như chó với mèo").
In Vietnamese culture, the dragon symbolizes the high reputation
In feudal society, an ordinary individual who successfully passed the national exam and ascended to the rank of mandarin was often likened to a dragon, symbolizing a significant transformation and elevated status This metaphor reflects the notion of a person in fortunate circumstances, akin to a dragon encountering favorable clouds.
In Vietnamese, “Rắn” is associated with
- human‟s evil appearance and behaviors : Mắt như mắt rắn ráo, Len lét như rắn mùng năm
In Vietnamese culture, the horse symbolizes luxury and status, often associated with travel and transportation for the affluent, as reflected in the phrase "Lên xe xuống ngựa." Additionally, horses play a role in various cultural expressions, such as "Chiêu binh bãi mã," which relates to welfare, and "Đầu trâu mặt ngựa," depicting evil Furthermore, the term "Ngựa non háu đá" describes a young and aggressive individual, highlighting the horse's significance in cultural narratives.
For Vietnamese farmers, goat is : not a helpful animal (Bán bò tậu ruộng mua dê về cày) a topic in gossips (Cà kê dê ngỗng)
However, goat sometimes has positive meaning For example:
“Treo đầu dê bán thịt chó”, it alludes high-quality goods
In various cultures, the term "monkey" is often associated with negative traits in humans It can describe someone who grimaces or makes faces, indicative of foolishness Additionally, it refers to individuals with poor behavior, highlighting their inability to change The term also captures the essence of cunning individuals, symbolizing slyness and trickery Furthermore, it is used to depict incompetent people in high positions, suggesting that their status does not equate to capability.
In Vietnamese culture, chickens play a significant role in daily life, reflected in numerous idioms and proverbs that incorporate the word "Gà." These expressions often serve as metaphors for various human traits, appearances, states, and emotions, with examples including "Đông như đám gà chọi," "Nhác nháo như gà phải cáo," and "Rối như gà mắt đẻ."
Dogs in Vietnamese culture are watchdogs, not pets They do not bear positive connotation In the following idioms, dog‟s image is used to:
- compare with human‟s intellect, emotions, actions and etc (e.g Bẩn như chó, Như chó với mèo, Làm như chó cái trốn con)
In Vietnamese culture, negative traits are often likened to pigs, serving as a form of insult Common comparisons include being dirty, referred to as "dirty like a pig" (Ở dơ như heo), being overweight, described as "fat like a pig" (Mập như heo), and lacking intelligence, expressed as "stupid like a pig" (Ngu như heo).
Contrastive analysis of Idioms with Animals in English and Vietnamese
Both Vietnamese and English idioms heavily incorporate similes and metaphors featuring familiar animals Domestic animals like dogs, cats, mice, chickens, ducks, and cows represent a significant portion of these expressions Additionally, typical wild animals such as foxes, rabbits, lions, tigers, fish, and birds also play a crucial role This reliance on animal imagery is a common characteristic shared by idioms across many languages worldwide.
Humans often attribute their own characteristics to animals, as highlighted by Lakoff and Turner (1989), who discuss various metaphorical schemas that illustrate our understanding of animals and how this influences our conceptual frameworks The domain of animal life serves as a rich source for comprehending human experiences, with different cultures sharing idioms that feature the same animal imagery and convey similar meanings This commonality arises because certain animals hold significant roles in the lives of people across cultures, exhibiting comparable traits and attributes, thereby leading to shared metaphors.
Pig person who is dirty, messy and eat too much
Cat and mouse the bully and the weaker
E.g.1: to pig it (ở dơ như heo), to make a pig of oneself (ăn như heo)
E.g.2: as cunning as a fox (ranh như cáo)
E.g.3: argue like cat and dog (cải nhau như chó với mèo)
E.g.4: cat and mouse game (trò mèo vờn chuột) a The same expressions
Human beings share comparable cognitive abilities and thought processes, which is evident when examining idioms in both English and Vietnamese A closer look reveals numerous equivalent idioms that exhibit striking similarities in imagery, structure, and underlying meanings.
- crocodile tears: nước mắt cá sấu
- a barking dog seldom bite: chó sủa thường không cắn
- a dog is valiant at his own door: chó cậy gần nhà
- a cock is valiant on his own dunghill: gà cậy gần chuồng
- to fish in trouble water: thừa nước đục thả câu
- even a worm will turn: con giun xéo lắm cũng quằn
- water off a duck’s back: nước đổ đầu vịt b Different expressions having close meaning
Certain idioms convey similar messages while featuring different animal imagery Despite their varied expressions and perspectives, these idioms share a common meaning Here are some examples from Lê and Trầm (1986).
- birds of a feather flock together: ngưu tầm ngưu, mã tầm mã (p 35)
- every bird loves to hear himself sing: mèo khen mèo dài đuôi (p 44)
- fine feathers make fine birds: con gà tốt mã vì lông (p 49)
- a living dog is better than a dead lion: người sống, đống vàng (p 25)
- when the cat’s away, the mice will play: vắng chủ nhà gà vọc niêu tôm (p 98)
And from some other sources:
- eat like a bird: ăn như mèo
- like a cat on hot bricks: như kiến bò chảo nóng
- to shut the stable-door when the horse is stolen: mất bò mới lo làm chuồng
We can see that the differences don‟t cause trouble for understanding those idioms because the cognition of both Vietnamese and English people about those animals is the same.
The cross-culture differences
Idioms reflect the social, cultural, historical, and political values of a society, showcasing both universal and distinct characteristics across cultures There are two main types of idioms: those that share a common moral message found in various cultures, and those that arise from specific historical events or local customs, which carry unique cultural identities For instance, the cultural connotations of animal-related idioms in English and Vietnamese are deeply intertwined with each nation's religion, customs, and history, leading to significant differences between the two languages This divergence often presents challenges for individuals learning a foreign language.
The distinction between English and Vietnamese idioms is significantly influenced by their respective traditions and customs Vietnam, with its agricultural roots, contrasts sharply with England's nomadic heritage, leading to divergent perceptions of the world, particularly regarding animals Each culture emphasizes animals that play vital roles in their lives, resulting in idioms featuring dogs, horses, and buffaloes that convey different meanings across these cultures.
In nomadic cultures, including English culture, dogs play a vital role by guarding homes, herding livestock like sheep and goats, and assisting in hunting wild animals This close relationship between dogs and nomads underscores the deep bond that exists, with dogs often regarded as humanity's best friend Numerous idioms further highlight the significance of dogs in our lives.
- a house without either a cat or a dog is the house of a scoundrel
- a house is not a home without a dog
- old dog for a hard road
- love me love my dog
- the greater love is a mother's; then comes a dog's; then a sweetheart's
- a man's best friend is his dog
Because they are human‟s best companion, the image of the dogs is usually associated with human being in idioms dog human being (England)
You can find this metaphor in many idioms:
- every dog has its day: everyone can be successful at something at some time in their life
- to help a lame dog over stile: to help someone who is in difficulty or trouble
- you can't teach an old dog new tricks: people who have long been used to doing things in a particular way will not abandon their habits
- give a dog a bad name (and hang him): people who lose their reputation have difficulty regaining it because others continue to blame or suspect them
In English culture, dogs are often seen as symbols of faithfulness and dependability, reflecting their valued role in society Conversely, in Vietnamese culture, dogs may be associated with negative traits such as stupidity and cruelty, highlighting a stark contrast in their perceived worth.
In Vietnam, while dogs are often utilized for guarding homes, there is a general aversion towards their behavior, leading to the term "dog" being used metaphorically to describe cruel and unscrupulous individuals Below are some Vietnamese idioms that reflect this sentiment and their meanings.
- mõm chó không mọc được ngà voi: nice words never come out from the bad guy‟s mouth
- chơi với chó, chó liếm mặt: be kind to the inferiors, then they will be disrespectful
- chó cùng giứt dậu: bad guy at the difficult time may be even fiercer
- chó ngáp phải ruồi: stupid person accidentally says or does right things
Horses hold a significant place in English culture, symbolizing strength and hard work, and are a source of pride for their owners In contrast, their importance is not as pronounced in Vietnamese culture, where they do not carry the same level of respect as they do in England.
- eat like a horse (eat a lot)
- a good horse cannot be of bad color
- a horse, a wife and a sword may be showed but not lent
- choose a horse and a wife to make
However, in Vietnam horses represent stubbornness Bellow are some Vietnamese idioms using the horse‟s image and their meanings:
- đầu trâu mặt ngựa: bad and cruel guys
- mồm chó vó ngựa: dogs‟ mouth and horses‟ hoop are very dangerous
- ngựa con háu đá: the young are always aggressive
- ngựa quen đường cũ: hard to rid of bad habits
- như ngựa bất kham: as stubborn as a wild horse
In addition to common animals like dogs and horses, various other animals such as buffalos and cows carry unique connotations in English idioms English learners may face significant communication challenges if they are unfamiliar with these cultural nuances, particularly when it comes to understanding idiomatic expressions.
Vietnam and England exhibit significant differences in their religious beliefs, with Vietnam embracing a blend of Buddhism, Confucianism, and other faiths, while Christianity predominates in England This divergence in religious backgrounds influences cultural perceptions, particularly regarding animals For example, the symbolism of the dragon varies greatly between the two nations, reflecting their distinct cultural interpretations.
In Vietnamese culture, the dragon symbolizes the high reputation In the past, when someone passed the national exam and became a mandarin, the case was called
In Vietnamese culture, the phrase “cá chép hóa rồng” symbolizes transformation and ambition, reflecting the journey from humble beginnings to greatness When a person of higher social status visits someone of lower status, the idiom “rồng đến nhà tôm” illustrates the dragon's benevolence, representing power, goodwill, and blessings Historically, the dragon is linked to kings and royalty, embodying excellence and the pursuit of goals Vietnamese people proudly identify as “con rồng cháu tiên,” or “sons and daughters of Dragon and Divinity,” highlighting their cultural heritage In contrast, Western cultures often view dragons as malevolent creatures, associated with fire-breathing and multiple heads, showcasing a stark difference in perception.
In English, “to chase the dragon” means “to take heroin” (The Free Dictionary), a
The term "dragon lady" refers to a domineering or aggressive woman, while its Vietnamese equivalent is "sư tử Hà Đông." To fully grasp these expressions, one must appreciate the cultural and religious nuances inherent in both languages.
Vietnam is home to a variety of religions, primarily influenced by imports from countries like China and India, resulting in a scarcity of Vietnamese idioms tied to traditional religious references In contrast, English idioms are rich in biblical and religious allusions, particularly those involving animals According to Lyman (2007), this disparity highlights the cultural differences in idiomatic expressions related to religion.
“Animals are often mentioned in the Bible It is widely quoted sayings that briefly and strikingly express some universal truth or shrewd observation about everyday life.”
Sheep hold a significant place in the Bible, being mentioned over 500 times, more than any other animal Their prominence stems from their vital role in the nomadic and agricultural lifestyles of the Hebrews and similar cultures Additionally, sheep serve as a powerful symbol for God's people throughout biblical texts, highlighting their importance in spiritual contexts.
So, in the Bible sheep symbolizes human being that is both innocent and sinful
In English, we can find lots of idioms using sheep‟s image like:
- a lamb to the slaughter: in an unconcerned manner / unaware of any impending catastrophe
- a wolf in sheep clothing: an enemy disguised as a friend
- separate the sheep from the goats: distinguish between good and bad individuals, or superior and inferior ones
- black sheep: The odd/least reputable member of a group
- lost sheep: person thought to be on a course of self-destruction
- there is a black sheep in every flock: there is no perfect group/family
The Bible features a variety of animals, including lions, leopards, and bears, each symbolizing unique meanings tied to the narratives within its pages As noted by Lyman (2007), many idioms we use today also have their origins in biblical references.
- a fly in the ointment: a little flaw that ruins what otherwise would be something good
- a lion in the path: the obstacle, especially one invented as an excuse for inaction
- a little bird told me: to keep secret, or to claim intuition as, a source of information
- the Pale Horse: the death
- to strain at a gnat and swallow a camel: to fuss about unimportant issues while assenting too readily in important ones
Without understanding the religion as a part of culture, we can not understand the idioms originated from them
Both English and Vietnamese languages are rich in imagery and idiomatic expressions, particularly those involving animals Both cultures exhibit similar cognitive processes and universal moral values, leading to a shared significance of certain animals in their societies Consequently, there exists a substantial number of analogous animal-related idioms in both languages, reflecting similarities in both form and meaning.
England and Vietnam possess distinct histories, customs, and religions, leading to varying interpretations of animals in their cultures Idioms derived from historical events, local traditions, or specific religious beliefs convey unique messages, even when utilizing the same animal imagery.