Aims of the study
+ reviewing theoretical background, concerning words, word meaning and metaphor
+ presenting some difficulties faced by Vietnamese learners of English in terms of idioms in general and the idioms related to the proper names in particular
+ giving some suggested solutions to overcome these difficulties
+ studying metaphors based on proper names in English idioms and in literature.
Methods of the study…
The study of metaphor extends beyond English idioms to encompass literature involving proper names, employing comparative methods to highlight the significance of metaphor in both idiomatic expressions and literary works This research aims to provide readers with insights from various linguists, showcasing typical examples and extracted findings that illustrate the role of metaphor in language.
Pham Quynh Nga, K45E1_English 7 from various types of books Besides, idioms were collected from different dictionaries to get valuable knowledge for this paper
Furthermore, information related to the study from websites was also looked into in order to complete this study successfully.
Scope of the study
During the study process, the author has been attracted by metaphor - one of the figures of speech, particularly metaphors from proper names in English idioms and literature
Within the scope of a graduation paper, we cannot cover a research on all types of metaphors Our main focus is metaphors from proper names
Design of the study…
The study consists of three parts
Part A: Introduction, including Rationale, Aims of the study, Methods of the study, Scope of the study, and Design of the study
Part B: Development, this part is divided into three chapters
This article provides a comprehensive overview of the study's background, including definitions, characteristics, and classifications of metaphors It delves into an analysis of metaphors in the English language, particularly focusing on their use with proper names Additionally, the article compares the use of proper name-based metaphors in English and Vietnamese, highlighting similarities and differences between the two languages.
Part C: Conclusion, it gives a summary of the whole study mentioned in the previous parts
Theoretical background
Metaphor and its characteristics and classification
Understanding the history and application of metaphors in everyday life is crucial before delving into the specific use and significance of metaphors associated with proper names.
A metaphor is defined as a word or phrase that describes someone or something in a way that deviates from its usual meaning, highlighting the shared qualities between two different entities to enhance the description's impact.
The phrase "she has a heart of stone" exemplifies a metaphor, which conveys figurative meanings rather than literal ones According to Hoang Tat Truong (1993:7), metaphors involve the transference of names based on similarities, allowing us to liken one object to another by identifying common characteristics This figurative language enriches our understanding by drawing connections between seemingly disparate concepts.
According to Truong (1993:81), the concept of similarity in metaphors relates to the characteristics of both bees and hardworking individuals In this context, metaphors consist of two primary components: the tenor and the vehicle The tenor represents the subject being described, while the vehicle provides the imagery that conveys the comparison Together, these elements converge to establish a shared point of similarity, known as the ground.
Truong (1993:80) Here, the association of similarity is about the behaviour or character of the fox and the person (she): cunning person character
In “The English word” by I.Arnold (1986, p.64), some characteristics of metaphor can be presented as follows:
1.2.2.1 Metaphor is the implicit form of “X is like Y in respect of Z”
In metaphorical language, X represents the tenor, which is the underlying concept being described, while Y serves as the vehicle, the image that conveys this description The relationship between tenor and vehicle is implied rather than explicitly stated, enriching the metaphor's meaning.
And all the men and women merely players;
They have their exits and their entrances”
William Shakespeare's famous quotation serves as a prime example of metaphor, where "the world" is likened to "a stage." This comparison aims to illustrate the world by drawing on familiar characteristics associated with a stage Here, "the world" acts as the tenor, while "a stage" functions as the vehicle of the metaphor.
1.2.2.2 In metaphor an association may be built not only between two physical objects but also between a concrete object and an abstract concept
The noun "eye" originally refers to a part of the body but has evolved to also signify the hole in a needle Similarly, the noun "bar," which initially meant "barriers," has taken on figurative meanings such as social bar, color bar, and racial bar This illustrates the connection between concrete objects and abstract concepts in language.
1.2.2.3 The association with the meaning is original considerably weakened and is gradually erased
The term "star," originally referring to a "heavenly body," evolved to denote a "famous actor" or "actress." Over time, the ironic connotation faded, leading to a stronger connection with its contemporary meaning.
Pham Quynh Nga, K45E1_English 15 meaning is considerably weakened and is gradually erased Nowadays, the word is used to refer to idols, popular sportsmen (football stars)
1.2.2.4 In general, metaphor change of meaning is often observed in idiomatic compounds
The noun "drop" refers not only to a small particle of liquid but also to earrings shaped like drops of water, known as diamond drops, and candies resembling the same shape, such as mint drops Additionally, in compound words like "snowdrop" and "bluebell," the term reflects these meanings through resemblance, with the second constituents also experiencing a similar shift in meaning.
1.2.2.5 Metaphor are frequently found in the informal strata of the vocabulary, especially in slang
G.B Antrushina (1985) asserts that all slang is fundamentally metaphorical, with each slang term originating from a joke—though not necessarily a humorous one Slang evolves from colloquial language, and most slang expressions serve as metaphors that carry a jocular tone, often tinged with a coarse, mocking, or cynical undertone.
A redheaded boy is almost certain to be nicknamed “carrot” or
“ginger” A person who is given to spying and sneaking gets the derogatory nickname of “rat” Both these meanings are metaphorical
1.2.3.1 According to the types of similarity
In these examples, the term "neck" refers to the narrow part at the top of a bottle rather than the human body, while "mouth" denotes a small opening, illustrating the use of metaphorical expressions in language.
Pham Quynh Nga, K45E1_English 16 round Mouth is also used as a metaphor to refer the entrance of a cave and the other example such as:
Truong (1993:80) Finding many meaning of metaphors, the metaphorical expressions are based on the identification of shape
Look at the following example:
“Their daughter is quite plump but their son is positively elephantine”
English –Vietnamese –Dictionary (1993:559) The image of “elephantine” is used metaphorically to make a hidden comparison with a big person
A consideration of the example below should be taken into:
“The heart of the country”
In Truong's (1993:79) analysis, expressions like "foot of the mountain" illustrate metaphorical language based on positional similarities, where "foot" signifies the lowest part of the body and is applied to describe the base of a mountain Similarly, the term "heart" represents a crucial body part located at the center, further exemplifying metaphorical usage Other phrases, such as "leg of the table" and "tail of the procession," also function as metaphors derived from their positional characteristics.
Look at the following example:
“They had to worm their way through the narrow tunnel”
“The river snaked away into the distance”
The term "worm" refers to an animal characterized by its soft, rounded or flattened body In this context, it serves as a verb to describe a twisting movement akin to that of a worm Similarly, the verb "snake" is used metaphorically to illustrate movement, drawing a parallel to the way a snake moves.
Basing on the similarity of function, these examples:
In these examples, the terms "key," "head," and "hand" are used metaphorically, representing concepts that obstruct rather than their literal meanings related to physical objects or body parts This transference of meaning highlights shared functional similarities, illustrating how language can evolve to convey complex ideas through metaphor.
E.g “The rose of clouds at down”
English – Vietnamese –Dictionary (1993:1216) The words “ rose” and “ orange” are described as similarity of colour,
"The 'rose of clouds at dawn' symbolizes the beauty of the sky, likening it to a flower, while 'orange light' uses the fruit as a metaphor for the warm, inviting glow of sunrise."
Pham Quynh Nga, K45E1_English 18 refer to the lights that has orange colour Therefore, the metaphorical expressions are based on the identification of colour
Similarity of behaviour and character
Look at the following example: “He is a fox”
English metaphors based on proper names
English metaphors derived from proper names are diverse, encompassing numerous examples like Jack, Michael, and Sandwich This study goes beyond merely listing names of people and places; it delves into the metaphorical meanings found in English idioms, sayings, proverbs, and expressions associated with these names.
Before delving into the metaphorical meanings associated with proper names in English, this section will first explore the relevant terminology and the historical development of these words.
2.1.1 Metaphor created from eponymous words
Many English words have their roots in the names of individuals who made significant contributions to society These eponymous terms serve as a reminder of their achievements and the impact they have had on our daily lives By examining various metaphors linked to these proper names, we can gain a deeper understanding of their significance and the events they represent.
The term "Boycott" is metaphorically used to signify a refusal to engage or interact with something To illustrate this concept, consider the following example:
E g: “The anarchist speaker urged all citizents to boycott the elections”
O’ Dell (1995:30) The word “boycott” is named after a land lord in Ireland who made himself unpopular by his treatment of his tenants and was socially isolated.
Metaphors based on proper names in English in
Metaphor based on proper names in English and Vietnamese… 29
Proper names are utilized in comparable contexts in both English and Vietnamese, with many instances where their equivalents can be found in each language.
3.1.1 “Little Lord Fautleroy” and “ Mã Giám Sinh”
"Little Lord Fauntleroy," the title character of Frances Hodgson Burnett's first children's novel, represents an elegantly-dressed figure This character's name parallels "Mã Giám Sinh" from Nguyen Du's "Kiều," both metaphorically describing individuals who are rude, cunning, and well-dressed.
E.g “He is little Lord Fautleroy” www.usingenglish.com “Tiên sư mấy thằng già, toàn là đồ Mã Giám Sinh”
The name of “ Scrooge”, a character in Christmas Carol by Charles
The term "Dickens" is often used metaphorically to describe someone who is exceptionally mean, similar to how the name "Huyện Hinh," a character from Nguyen Cong Hoan's story "Đồng hào có ma," serves the same purpose in Vietnamese culture.
E.g “Come on! I’ve never met anyone so reluctant to spend money, you Scrooge”
In “Vớ phải ông hà tiện” article in the website www.vietbao.vn
E.g “Mày cứ làm Huyện Hinh mãi thế thì vợ mày nó bỏ đi cũng phải” www.vietbao.vn
3.1.3 “Jekyll and Hyde” and “ Trịnh Hâm ”
The name of “Jekyll and Hyde”, a character in a novel by R.L
Stevenson symbolizes a man with dual personalities, embodying both gentleness and murderous intent Similarly, in Vietnamese literature, the character "Trịnh Hâm" from Nguyen Dinh Chieu's "Lục Vân Tiên" serves as a metaphor for this contrasting nature.
E.g “He is got a Jekyll and Hyde” www.usingenglish.com
3.1.4 “Don Juan” and “ Sở Khanh”
Truong (1993:90) E.g “Niềm vui xuất giá chưa được bao lâu thì tôi phát hiện ra rằng: chồng mình là một gã Sở Khanh” www.xaluan.com
The character Sở Khanh in the story "Kiều" mirrors the infamous "Don Juan," embodying a notorious reputation for his flirtation and deceit towards numerous women.
3.1.5 “Painted Jezebel” and “Thị Nở”
Thomas (2002:114) E.g “Đã xấu lại còn trơ trẽn, nó đúng là Thị Nở”
“Painted Jezebel” has an equivalent with a character in “ChÝ phÌo” story by
Nam Cao, “Thị Nở” which has the same appearance such as ugly and particularly attractive
In short, metaphorical proper names are used differently in two languages and cultures Therefore, in order to understand and know the
Pham Quynh Nga, K45E1_English 34 metaphors related to proper names, we will learn more knowledge not only from school but also from many books.
Difficulties in understanding and translating words related to
proper names in English idioms and proverbs
Translating metaphors based on proper names can pose challenges for learners due to the unique linguistic systems, geographical contexts, and cultural characteristics of each nation Both Vietnamese and English languages express similar thoughts differently, influenced by their respective social conditions and cultural developments For instance, while English speakers may refer to a jealous person as "He is an Othello," Vietnamese speakers might use the expression "Hắn đúng là đồ Hoạn th." This highlights the cultural differences that shape idiomatic expressions related to proper names in each language.
Exploring the nuances of proper names reveals cultural differences; for example, while Vietnamese culture associates the trait of greed with the term “Tr- bát giới,” English speakers refer to a greedy person as “Billy Bunter.”
In summary, the meanings of proper names in English frequently differ from their literal translations, and each name is used within a specific context As a result, learners may find it challenging to grasp their meanings fully.
Suggestions to overcome difficulties
To overcome the challenges of learning English, students should dedicate time to studying English idioms and enhancing their understanding of both English and Vietnamese cultures Additionally, cultivating a habit of reading books, novels, and short stories will aid in collecting and mastering English idioms.
Pham Quynh Nga, K45E1_English 35 then learning the exact meaning of idioms Metaphoric images play an important role not only comprehension in idioms but also characters in literature
Learning and understanding metaphors related to proper names can be made easier by placing them in specific contexts and creating relevant sentences This approach not only aids in memorizing proper names but also helps in recalling associated idioms Metaphors play a crucial role in lexicology, particularly within the realm of idioms and expressions, making the study of this subject both fascinating and challenging As the saying goes, “study, study more, study forever,” we look forward to exploring this topic further.
These following exercises may help leaners practise:
Some practical exercises
Exercise 1: Choose the names of characters in popular fiction which best completes each sentences
1 During the war He was sent on dangerous secret missions aboard Very exciting! He was a sort of
2 There are times when most of us would like to escape from all the pressures of city life and live a more simple, basic kind of _ existence
3 He’s not very practical What he needs is someone to look after him and do everything for him He needs a
4 Well, yes he was a criminal and he stole a lot of money, but he helped a lot of people with it He was a bit of a
5 He still has very youthful enthusiasms, and he’s as slim and fit as he was 20 years ago He’s a _
6 The film is doing very badly and facing bankruptcy I don’t think it can survive We don’t just want a new director We want a _
7 I think Alan should go on a diet and get more exercise He’s beginning to look like _
8 Come on! I’ve never met anyone so reluctant to spend money, you _
9 Come on, wake up! It’s nearly lunch-time
10 He’s a body-builder and weight-lifter Have you seen him a swimsuit?
Exercise 2: Match up the definition on the left (1-5) with the correct proper names on the right (a-e)
1 Very elegantly-dressed little boy in novel by F.H.Burnett
2 Man with two contrasting personalities, one gentle and one murderous, in novel by R.L
3 Girl in a fairy-tale who is treated as slave by her family
4 Sinister dictator figure in totalitarian state in George
5 All-purpose servant of Robinson
Crusoe a Cinderella b Jekyll and Hyde c Lord Fauntleroy d Man Friday e Big brother
Recapitulations
Metaphor is a prominent rhetorical device commonly found in proper names, significantly enhancing the figurative and vivid meanings of both idioms and novel characters Recognizing its crucial role, I have chosen to analyze metaphors within English idioms and their connection to eponymous proper names.
In chapter 1, a general theoretical background of metaphor has been presented, which helps people make sense of the role of metaphor
Chapter 2 explores various English metaphors derived from proper names, offering examples that enhance learners' understanding of these linguistic constructs Additionally, these metaphors are paired with their Vietnamese equivalents, enriching learners' cultural insights into both English and Vietnamese contexts.
The final chapter presents English metaphors associated with proper names, along with their Vietnamese equivalents, while highlighting the challenges Vietnamese learners encounter when studying English idioms and proper names By exploring suggested solutions, learners can identify effective methods for mastering English idioms related to proper names The chapter concludes with various exercise types, providing learners with opportunities to practice their skills.
This research paper aims to enhance English learners' understanding of metaphors associated with proper names, providing valuable insights and benefits for their language acquisition.
Suggestions for futher studies
As mentioned in the Scope of the study, we only focused on metaphors based on proper names in idioms and literature
During the course of our reseach, we have found interesting related issues that can be good topics for further studies Following are some of them:
- Metaphor expressions based on parts of human body in idioms
- Metaphorical expressions in a literary work (e.g The Thorn Birds)
- Metaphorical expressions based on the identification of colour
1 Hornby, A.S (1990) Oxford Advance Learner’s Dictionary of Current English
3 Soars, J & Liz (1995) Headway Student’s Book
4 O’Dell, M.Mc.C F (1995) English Vocabulary in Use Cambridge: CUP
5 Thoa, N Y T (2005) Assignment on Language and Culture in Contact Hanoi: Vietnam National University- Hanoi
6 Truong, H T, (1993) Basic English Lexicology Hanoi: National
University College of Foreign language
7 English-Vietnamese Dictionary (1993) HCM city: HCMP
8 Hatch, E & Brown, C Vocabulary, Semantics and Language Education Cambridge: CUP
9 Thanh, N T, (1998) Mùa Xuân Nấc Thầm HCM city: YPH
10 Levy, M, (1996) Nếu Em Không Phải Một Giấc Mơ Hanoi: WH
1.http://www.dictionary.cambridge.org
2.http://www.educationphauner.com/education-plauner/eaasy-artideaps)
3.http://www.expression&sayings.com
6.http://www.wordnet.princeton.edu/per/webn