INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Proverbs represent a significant cultural heritage, embodying the wisdom and experiences of societies throughout history These expressions have been transmitted across generations, offering unique insights into the natural world and human behavior Through their distinctive conceptualization, proverbs reflect the values and laws that govern both nature and society.
Proverbs serve as a mirror of a country's customs and traditions, encapsulating natural and social phenomena, productive experiences, and social relationships while conveying cultural values through language Each country's proverbs are rooted in unique cultural and social contexts, making them vital to understanding a nation's identity When these proverbial windows are closed, we risk missing the deeper meanings of both the language and the culture it represents.
Proverbs are characterized by a strong connection between form and content, resulting in cohesive and unified expressions that demonstrate their enduring nature Each proverb employs distinct imagery, events, and phenomena to convey abstract concepts, effectively using the specific to illustrate the universal.
The exploration of proverbs offers valuable insights into the essence of global cultures, making it a vital area of study for language learners Understanding proverbs requires a deep appreciation of the associated cultural contexts, which enhances foreign language teaching by providing students with a broader cultural perspective A significant number of proverbs in both English and Vietnamese feature the word "eat," highlighting the cultural similarities and differences between the two nations This rich collection of proverbs has increasingly drawn the attention of scholars across various fields for further research.
Researchers have explored various themes in proverbs, including weather, animals, friendship, money, humanity, and family For example, Đỗ Thị Minh Ngọc (2010) analyzed the cultural perspectives of English and Vietnamese societies through weather-related proverbs Similarly, Vũ Thị Yến Hồng (2012) investigated the connection between natural phenomena and animal behavior.
(2015) also made a contrastive analysis of English and Persian proverbs related to animals
Researchers in linguistic fields have utilized syntactic and semantic features to analyze proverbs Nguyễn Thị Bích Huệ (2016) compared the syntactic and semantic characteristics of English and Vietnamese proverbs and idioms related to weather Additionally, Trịnh Thị Hương Giang conducted a related study.
In 2013, a study examined the syntactic, semantic, and cultural characteristics of English and Vietnamese proverbs related to marriage Additionally, other research has focused on comparing the syntactic and semantic features of proverbs across these two languages.
Numerous studies have explored various aspects of proverbs and their use in language education However, there is a notable gap in research regarding the linguistic characteristics of proverbs that include the term "eat."
It is for this reason that the author made a study of English and luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
This study explores Vietnamese proverbs that include the word "eat" (EPWE and VPWE) from both syntactic and semantic viewpoints It aims to identify the similarities and differences in meaning and structure between Vietnamese and English proverbs The findings are expected to provide practical applications in language use, enhancing the teaching and learning of English as a foreign language.
Aim and Objectives of the Study
This study investigates the syntactic and semantic similarities and differences between English Proverbs with Western English (EPWE) and Vernacular Proverbs with Western English (VPWE), contributing to a deeper understanding of the features of proverbs.
To achieve this aim, the author will try to fulfill the following objectives:
- To identify and describe syntactic and semantic features of EPWE and VPWE
- To find out similarities and differences in syntactic and semantic features between EPWE and VPWE.
Research Questions
To achieve the above aim and objectives, the author collected data and analyzed the data to answer the following questions:
1 What are the syntactic and semantic features of EPWE and VPWE?
2 What are similarities and differences in syntactic and semantic features between EPWE and VPWE?
3 What are cultural values shown in proverbs containing the word “eat” in English and Vietnamese?
Scope of the Study
The thesis exclusively examines the syntactic and semantic characteristics of master's theses in English for Professional and Workplace Education (EPWE) and Vocational and Professional Workplace Education (VPWE).
The data were collected from English and Vietnamese dictionaries and publications
The author collected a total of 146 proverbs, comprising 73 in English and 73 in Vietnamese, that include the word "eat." This selection aims to analyze the syntactic and semantic similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese proverbs.
The study gathered nearly all English proverbs that include the terms "eat," "eating," or "eaten." However, some proverbs were excluded from the analysis due to the author's lack of understanding of their meanings.
For instance: “He is so hungry, he could eat a horse behind the saddle.”
Significance of the Study
This study enhances the understanding of linguistic and cultural values reflected in English and Vietnamese proverbs Furthermore, it elucidates the universality of proverb theories and contributes to the advancement of proverb research.
The study highlights significant similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese proverbs, particularly those featuring the word "eat." This research is invaluable for English learners, enhancing their understanding of proverbs to improve communication and reduce culture shock Additionally, it serves as a useful resource for English teachers, aiding in the expansion of students' knowledge of proverbs and the development of relevant teaching materials.
Organization of the Study
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The study is divided into five chapters as follows:
Chapter 1 , Introduction, contains the rationale, aims, and objectives, research questions, the significance of the study, the scope of the study and the organization of the study
Chapter 2, Literature Review, defines proverbs and idioms, classifies proverbs, and explores their semantic and syntactic features It also examines the relationship between language and culture, followed by a discussion of previous studies related to these theoretical features.
Chapter 3, Research Methodology, provides a full description of the methods and procedures to collect process and analyze the data
Chapter 4, Findings and Discussions, focuses on the results of the data analysis The discussion based on the research results is also made
Chapter 5 concludes the thesis by summarizing key findings and discussing their implications, while also offering suggestions for future research.
LITERATURE REVIEW
Overview of proverb
There have been lot of different definitions of proverbs In English, the author finds definitions about proverbs given by researchers Some definitions can be given as follows:
According to Guralnik and Solomon (1980, p.1144), a proverb is “a short saying in common use that strikingly expresses some obvious truth or familiar experience.”
Jennifer Speake (2008, p.1) defines that “A proverb is a traditional saying which offers advice or presents a moral in a short and pithy manner.” Paczolay (1998, p.264) gives a definition of proverb as follows:
A proverb is a concise statement that conveys a clear or implied general meaning, often reflecting typical human conditions, attitudes, or actions, with certain limitations It is widely recognized and frequently cited within a specific language community, sometimes presented in a shortened form with the rest of the meaning implied Generally, proverbs are considered to have no identifiable author or literary origin.
A proverb is a concise and widely recognized expression that encapsulates wisdom, truth, morals, and traditional beliefs in a metaphorical and memorable way, as defined by Mieder (1993, p.5) These sayings are passed down through generations, reflecting cultural values and insights.
Referring to the proverb, Vietnamese researchers also give many different definitions
Vũ Ngọc Phan (1978, p.26) defines a proverb as a sentence that conveys an idea, advice, experience, morality, or sometimes criticism An example is the proverb “Muốn ăn cá phải thả câu dài,” which highlights the importance of hard work, diligence, and patience.
Phạm Văn Bình (1993, p.8) echoes Phan's perspective, defining a proverb as a complete sentence that conveys an idea related to commentary, experience, morality, justice, or criticism derived from human life.
Judging proverbs on the angle of folklore literature, Hoàng Tiến Tựu
Proverbs are a form of folklore that encapsulate the experiences and wisdom of people, offering insights, judgments, and advice through short, simple, and rhythmic statements that are easy to remember and share (1990, p.79).
Proverbs are defined as concise and complete sentences that convey a specific idea They encapsulate truths, moral lessons, advice, life experiences, and traditional wisdom, which are passed down through generations.
Classifying proverbs is a challenging task, akin to defining them Despite this difficulty, scholars have made efforts to categorize proverbs based on various criteria such as origin, meaning, and function Lauhakangas (2014) proposes an international classification system that encompasses thirteen main themes, reflecting fundamental aspects of human life, including practical knowledge of nature, faith, basic attitudes, observations, socio-logic, morality, social interaction, communication, social norms, coping mechanisms, and the concept of time.
Another theoretical approach to proverb classification is given by Eugenio (2007, p.36), who divided proverb into six groups as follows:
(i) Proverbs reflecting a general attitude towards life and the rules regulating it; for instance, “If you save, there is no earthly happiness that is not weighed down with tears.”
Ethical proverbs serve to promote virtues and denounce vices, exemplified by the saying, “Don’t postpone what you will do today for tomorrow.” Additionally, proverbs convey a value system, as illustrated by the expression, “To say a young man is like meat that smells bad.”
(iv) Proverbs that convey general truths and observations about life and human nature, for example, “Being too late is a positive thing.”
(v) Humorous proverbs such as “The love of an old man is like a snail that crawls.”
(vi) Splendid proverbs, for example, “Which means A fool loves Wicked behavior, but a man of knowledge delights in wisdom.”
However, Jennifer Speake (2008, p.14) classifies proverbs into three main categories:
The first type takes the form of abstract statements expressing general truths, such as “Absence makes the heart grow fonder.”
The second type features vivid examples drawn from daily life to illustrate broader concepts, such as the adage, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”
The third category of proverbs includes expressions derived from specific regions, reflecting traditional wisdom and folklore An example of this is the health proverb, "After dinner rest a while, after supper walk a mile," which emphasizes the importance of balancing rest and activity for better health.
“Feed a cold, and starve a fever.” In addition, there are traditional country proverbs, which relate to husbandry, the seasons, and the weather
In Vietnam, Chu Xuân Diên, Lương Văn Đang, Phương Tri (1993) also classify proverbs according to many different main themes and main classes such as:
The natural world significantly influences our daily lives, shaping our experiences with weather and labor In terms of social life, the culture of a country is reflected in its cuisine, clothing, and housing, as well as in transportation and work dynamics Health and family relationships play a crucial role in societal interactions, encompassing aspects such as marriage, public relations, and job opportunities Understanding these elements provides insight into the intricate connections between the environment and social structures.
(iii) Spiritual life, concepts of life and the universe (knowledge, experience, challenges, education, culture, art, etc.)
This study adopts the proverb classification system proposed by Chu Xuân Diên, Lương Văn Đang, and Phương Tri for the semantic analysis of EPWE and VPWE, amidst various existing classification systems.
2.1.3 Distinction between proverbs and idioms
Researchers often struggle to differentiate between proverbs and idioms This section aims to clarify these distinctions to enhance readers' understanding of proverbs A proverb is defined as a complete saying that conveys a single idea related to commentary, experience, morality, justice, or criticism In contrast, idioms will be explored through various definitions provided by linguists.
An idiom is a fixed expression that is widely recognized by native speakers, as noted by John Wright (2002, p.7).
We cannot make up our own idioms The second feature is that idiom uses language in a non-literal-metaphor-way
In a definition given by Wyatt (2006, p.5), an idiom is “an expression where meaning is different from the meaning of the individual words.”
Mona Baker (2011, p.67) defines idioms as fixed language patterns that permit minimal variation in form and typically convey meanings that are not easily inferred from their individual parts She outlines five essential conditions that characterize idioms.
(i) The order of the words in an idiom cannot be changed The way the words are put together is fixed and they cannot change their place
(ii) The words in an idiom cannot be omitted We are the users of the language are not permitted to delete some of the words of a particular element
(iii) There are no extra words that might be added to an idiom
(iv) No words in an idiom can be replaced by another word
(v) The grammatical structures of an idiom cannot also be changed
In a Vietnamese definition, Phạm Văn Bình (1993, p.9) states:
Theoretical framework
As mentioned above… proverbs usually appear in the form of phrases or sentences Therefore, the author will present some views about phrases and sentences of some linguists
According to Quirk, Greenbaum, Leech, & Svartvik (1985, pp 245-
264), a noun phrase is needed to distinguish the following constituent parts:
The head of a sentence serves as the central element around which other components gather, establishing agreement with the other parts of the sentence For those seeking academic resources, the latest thesis downloads are available at luanvanfull, and inquiries can be directed to luan van thac si via email at z z @gmail.com.
- The determinative, which includes pre-determiners (all, both, double …), central determiners (a, an, the, this, some…) and post-determiners (numerals, many, few, several…)
- The pre-modification is the component consisting of all the modifying or describing constituents before the head other than the determiners
- The post-modification is the element that contains all the modifying constituents placed after the head
Table 2.2 is the summary of the noun phrase constituents
Table 2.2 Summary of parts of Noun Phrase
(Proposed by Quirk et al.)
Post- Determiner both, all, half once, twice, two/ three… times one- fifth, two- third, three - quarters ( with of construction)
- The, a, an, my, your… any, some, this, that, each, either, neither
Cardinal numeral: one, two, three…
- Non- finite clause: reading a book
- Other noun phrase: that size…
For plural countable nouns : the, my, your…, these, those,
Ordinal numeral: first, fourth…., next, last, other, another luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
For uncountable noun: the, my, your…, whose, some, any, much,…
Quantifier: many, a, few, a few, several, much, a little, little
In "Ngữ pháp tiếng Việt" (Vietnamese Grammar), Nguyễn Tài Cẩn (1996) identifies that Vietnamese noun phrases consist of two main components: the head and modifications, which include pre-modification and post-modification This perspective is echoed by Diệp Quang Ban (1996), who describes a noun phrase as having three parts: pre-modification, head noun, and post-modification Pre-modifiers provide additional information regarding quantity, while post-modifiers offer insights into quality The head of a noun phrase may be a single word or a combination of words, typically featuring a classifier followed by a noun, verb, or adjective.
The Vietnamese noun phrases are presented in the examples below:
(16) nhiều (many) con mèo (cats)
(17) con mèo (cat) rất đẹp (very nice)
(18) nhiều (many) con mèo (cats) rất đẹp (very nice)
Pre-modification Head noun Post- modification
In short, according to the viewpoints of the linguists mentioned above, a noun phrase is treated as a grammatical unit composes of three parts: pre- modification, head, post-modification b Verb phrases
Quirk et al (1985) assert that a verb element is always a verb phrase, which can consist of a single verb or multiple verbs, with the latter including a head verb and one or more auxiliary verbs They differentiate between finite verb phrases, which have tense distinctions, and non-finite verb phrases, which include infinitives, -ing, and -ed participles In contrast, Diệp Quang Ban (1996) describes a verb phrase in Vietnamese as having a general structure that includes three components: the head part, the pre-modification part, and the post-modification part.
The Vietnamese verb phrases are illustrated in the following examples:
Phrasal verbs in Vietnamese differ from those in English, highlighting the unique characteristics of each language A verb phrase consists of a main or lexical verb, known as the head, and serves to expand the meaning of the verb Additionally, adjective phrases play a significant role in sentence structure.
An adjective phrase consists of a head adjective, which may be accompanied by pre-modifiers and post-modifiers, and serves to modify nouns These phrases can function either attributively, where they precede the noun, or predicatively, where they follow a linking verb; however, not all adjectives are suitable for both positions Pre-modifiers are the descriptive elements that come before the head, while post-modifiers follow the head and provide additional modification.
In Vietnamese, similar to the phrasal verb, an adjective phrase consists of three elements: pre-modification, head, post-modification (Diệp Quang Ban, 1996)
We can recognize the adjective phrases in the following examples:
(23) đẹp (beautiful) cực kỳ (extremely)
In general, in terms of structure, adjective phrases are quite similar to verb phrases and consist of three parts arranged in order: pre-modification, head, post-modification
Linguists have varying definitions of a sentence, traditionally viewed as a grammatical unit composed of smaller elements (Srijono, 2010) A sentence is recognized as a complex system (Kaan, 2020) and is defined by Swan (1995) as a group of words that conveys a statement, command, question, or exclamation, typically containing at least one subject and verb The boundaries of a sentence can be ambiguous, especially in spoken language, making it challenging to determine where one sentence ends and another begins (Quirk et al., 1985, p.47) Consequently, Quirk et al suggest that a clause is often a more clearly defined unit than a sentence, which may consist of one or more clauses.
Traditional grammar identifies four fundamental sentence structures: simple, compound, complex, and compound-complex sentences This thesis will analyze these sentence structures using the theoretical framework established by Quirk et al (1985) Simple sentences will be the initial focus of this analysis.
A simple sentence is a sentence including a single independent clause
According to Quirk et al (1985, p.53), there are seven clause types:
- SVO (Subject + Verb + Direct object)
- SVOO (Subject + Verb + Indirect object + Direct object)
- SVOC (Subject + Verb + Direct object + Complement)
- SVOA (Subject + Verb + Direct object + Adverbial)
As in: (24) Big fish eat little fish (SVO) (Speake, 2008, p.55)
(25) Eaten meat is good to pay (SVC) (Margulis, 2000, p.9)
(26) You cannot eat for tomorrow (SVA) (Margulis, 2000, p.30) b Compound sentences
A compound sentence consists of two or more coordinated main clauses; the clauses of a compound sentence provide classic instances of a paratactic relationship that is they have equivalent function, as in:
(27) Asses fetch the oats and the horses eat them (Margulis, 2000, p.124) c Complex sentences
A complex sentence contains one main clause and one or more subordinate clauses, distinguishing it from a simple sentence.
(28) If you won’t work, you shan’t eat (Manser, 2007, p.140)
Main clause: you shan’t eat
Subordinate clause: If you won’t work d Compound- complex sentences
The compound-complex sentence combines elements of compound and complex sentences A compound-complex sentence consists of at least two independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses, as in:
The proverb "Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime" emphasizes the importance of education and self-sufficiency (Manser, 2007, p.112) Quirk et al (1985, p.458) identify three types of comparison that can be expressed in language, highlighting the various ways we can convey similarities and differences.
- Comparison in relation to a higher degree is expressed by the inflected forms in -er and -est or its periphrastic equivalents with more, as in:
(30) A cake eaten in peace is better than two in trouble (Macadam,
- Comparison in relation to the same degree is expressed by as…as (or sometimes so…as), as in:
(31) A broken bannock is as good as eaten (Macadam, 2006, p.15)
- Comparison in relation to a lower degree is expressed by less and least, as in:
Eating less can contribute to a longer life (Macadam, 2006, p.45) Additionally, proverbs often exhibit a symmetrical structure, which is a key characteristic of traditional sayings, as noted by Norrick (1985, p.51).
Mieder (2004) explains that proverbs are traditional propositional statements that include at least one descriptive element, which consists of a topic and a comment, indicating that proverbs must contain a minimum of two words Proverbs with a single descriptive element are classified as non-oppositional, while those with two or more descriptive elements can be either oppositional or non-oppositional This symmetry establishes a balance between the two elements of a proverb Examples in both English and Vietnamese can further illustrate these symmetric structures.
(33) Eat at pleasure, drink with measure (Margulis, 2000, p.72)
(34) Ăn có chừng, chơi có độ (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.29)
The proverbs discussed exhibit a symmetrical structure, featuring two logically connected phrases with similar word classes and nearly identical syllable counts This symmetry enhances memorability and usability for readers, allowing them to easily recall and apply the proverbs Additionally, the equal number of words in each phrase helps readers confirm they have accurately read the proverbs.
In Vietnamese grammar, Diệp Quang Ban (1996, p.106) defines the sentence in Vietnamese as follows:
A sentence is a fundamental unit of language that possesses an independent grammatical structure and concludes with specific intonation, conveying a relatively complete meaning It can also express the speaker's attitudes and evaluations, aiding in the formation and communication of thoughts and feelings Additionally, a sentence serves as the smallest unit of a message in language.
Sentences can be classified into three categories: simple, compound, and complex A simple sentence contains only one subject-predicate clause In contrast, a compound sentence consists of two or more independent clauses without any dependent clauses Lastly, a complex sentence includes two or more clauses, with one serving as the main clause and the others functioning as subordinate clauses.
(35) Hùm dữ chẳng nỡ ăn thịt con (Nguyễn Đình Hùng, 2007, p.102)
(Dog does not eat dog.)
(36) Người giàu tham việc, thất nghiệp tham ăn (V Dung, 1993, p 484)
(literally translated as: The rich are greedy for work, the unemployed are greedy for food.)
(37) Cá không ăn muối cá ươn, con cãi cha mẹ trăm đường con hư (V Dung, 1993, p.105)
(literally translated as: Fish without salting will go rotten, children who disregard parental advice will inevitably go astray.)
In Vietnamese grammar, sentences consist of two main components: major parts and minor parts The major parts include the subject and predicate, which are essential for constructing a complete sentence The subject can be represented by nouns, pronouns, verbs functioning as nouns, or adjectives acting as nouns The predicate may consist of a single verb or a verb accompanied by its object(s) Minor parts, which include objects, theme-complements, complements, and adverbials, are not necessary for sentence formation, as a sentence can still be complete with just the major parts.
Subject is a verb: luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
(38) Uống nước ngọt thì không tốt (Drinking soft drinks is not good.)
(39) Mập thì không đẹp (Fat is not beautiful.)
(40) Con đường này rất sạch (This road is very clean.)
Some characteristics of Vietnamese and British eating culture
2.3.1 Characteristics of Vietnamese eating culture
Eating sustains life and reflects cultural identity The manner in which we eat reveals insights into the cultural sophistication and aesthetic awareness of individuals, families, regions, and nations, as noted by Trần Ngọc Thêm.
Since 1996, Vietnamese culture has placed a strong emphasis on the act of eating, with the word "eat" frequently appearing in various expressions such as "ăn ở," "ăn mặc," and "ăn nói." This highlights the significance of food in daily life The Vietnamese diet typically consists of rice, vegetables, fish, and meat, reflecting the country's wet rice farming tradition and its ability to utilize natural resources Additionally, Vietnamese eating culture is characterized by a sense of synthesis and community.
The Vietnamese eating style is characterized by a harmonious synthesis of diverse ingredients and flavors in food preparation Each dish is crafted to incorporate a variety of foods and spices, ensuring a balanced structure of the five essential nutrients Additionally, the Vietnamese dining experience emphasizes the enjoyment of multiple dishes simultaneously, where the overall deliciousness is enhanced by factors such as the weather, dining location, companionship, and the atmosphere of the meal.
The community is reflected in the collective eating culture of the luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
In Vietnamese culture, communal dining is a significant expression of community, where sharing a meal is often accompanied by lively conversation Key symbols of this tradition include the rice cooker and the fish sauce cup, which represent togetherness Eating speed and seat selection play crucial roles in the dining experience; Vietnamese people maintain a balanced pace, avoiding eating too quickly or too slowly, and they are mindful of their seating arrangements The proverb “Ăn trông nồi, ngồi trông hướng” highlights the importance of one's position at the table, underscoring the cultural significance of dining etiquette in Vietnam.
Similarly, Thái Văn Sinh (2020, pp 1-4) presents that the eating culture of a Vietnamese family is imbued with traditional oriental culture It is represented by the following characteristics:
In Vietnamese culture, the use of chopsticks and spoons is prevalent, with chopsticks holding significant cultural importance and associated taboos When serving food, it is essential to either turn the chopsticks or use a designated pair for sharing, reflecting the country's unique table manners.
The Vietnamese family meal symbolizes unity, as family members gather around a tray of rice after a long day's work, using this time to express care and love for one another Conversations during meals create a warm atmosphere, focusing on happy moments and future plans While the aesthetic arrangement of dishes may be overlooked, the emphasis is on the quality and quantity of food, with all dishes served simultaneously for sharing This practice fosters concern and encouragement among family members Younger members respectfully seek permission from elders before eating, demonstrating etiquette and respect Additionally, diners are mindful of their pace, ensuring they do not eat too quickly or slowly, and hosts serve guests with chopsticks rather than passing plates, highlighting hospitality.
Seating arrangements during meals reflect significant cultural behaviors, with grandparents and parents typically occupying solemn and convenient positions, while younger individuals often adopt different seating to serve their elders.
2.3.2 Characteristics of British eating culture
According to Barrow (2007), the British generally pay a lot of attention to good table manners He pointed out the British eating culture based on the following three characteristics:
In British dining, cutlery such as knives, forks, and spoons is predominantly used, with the continental style of eating where the fork is held in the left hand and the knife in the right Soup is served in a plate, while foods like sandwiches, scrip, corn on the cob, and fruit are typically eaten without utensils At the conclusion of the meal, it is customary to place the fork and knife side by side in the center of the plate.
In Britain, each person has their own plate of food, and meals are characterized by a quiet atmosphere, as the British tend to speak little while eating They eat slowly, chew with their mouths closed, and strive to avoid making noise Before beginning their meal, it is customary for them to say "grace," signaling the start of the meal for everyone.
In British culture, meals are typically enjoyed around round tables, symbolizing equality among diners When hosting guests, specific seating arrangements are observed to enhance the dining experience.
- The male guest of honor sits on the hostess’ right
- The next most important man sits on her left
- The female guest of honor sits on the host’s right
- The second most important woman sits on the host’s left
- Men and women should be alternately seated.
Previous Studies
Until now, proverbs have attracted many scholars all over the world There are some books whose authors mentioned some aspects of proverbs
Neal R Norrick's "How Proverbs Mean" (1985) examines the literal interpretations of proverbs and the relationships between standard proverbial meanings and their literal readings In contrast, Richard's "Proverbs and Their Lessons" (1861) offers a comprehensive overview of the origins, nature, distribution, and significance of proverbs in the English-speaking world Additionally, Manser's "The Fact on File Dictionary of Proverbs" (2007) presents detailed meanings of common proverbs in alphabetical order Lastly, Mieder's "Proverbs: A Handbook" (2004) provides an extensive comparative study of paremiology, focusing specifically on Anglo-American proverbs within the context of the English language.
Regarding Vietnamese proverbs studies, there have been many studies by many well-known linguists Among those are Chu Xuân Diên (1998) with
Vietnamese proverbs reflect a deep understanding of life, as highlighted by Mã Giang Lân (2012) and Thu Phương (2010) in their works They emphasize the classification of these proverbs, showcasing their relevance to various aspects of daily life.
Nam” and “Ca dao, tục ngữ Việt Nam” respectively In addition, Nguyễn Lân
In 2014, a dictionary was compiled that provided both literal and figurative explanations of proverbs in alphabetical order Nguyễn Đình Hùng (2007) gathered a selection of English proverbs along with their Vietnamese equivalents, aiding English learners Additionally, Vũ Ngọc Phan (2010) created a comprehensive collection of proverbs and folksongs, categorizing them based on their content.
Apart from the researches above, some foreign researchers have carried out many studies on various fields Mohammad Ali Fatemi, Reza Tahmasebi
( 2015) with the work “Contrastive Analysis of English and Persian Proverbs
Understanding the indirect messages of animal-related proverbs requires a deep familiarity with the culture of the society from which they originate, as a lack of cultural context can lead to misunderstandings Word-for-word translations often fail to convey the true meaning of these proverbs, and finding appropriate equivalents for English proverbs related to animals can be challenging Ochilova Noila Farmonovna (2014) explored the semantic structures of English phraseological units and proverbs that include proper names, emphasizing the linguistic and cultural dimensions of these expressions.
In 2004, a Chinese scholar conducted a study on the translation of Chinese and English proverbs, revealing that their similarities primarily stem from shared origins, features, and practical values Chinese proverbs are significantly influenced by Buddhism, with many derived from Buddhist texts, while the Bible plays a crucial role in shaping British and American culture, suggesting that their cultural identity is closely tied to biblical teachings.
A study by Spanish scholar Moreno (2005) explored the influence of generic cognitive mechanisms on language structure through an analysis of dog-related proverbs in Spanish and English The findings indicated that proverbial expressions differ across cultures, highlighting that proverbs serve as a conceptual universal phenomenon with significant communicative and cross-cultural value.
Numerous master's theses on proverbs have been conducted by Vietnamese researchers Nguyễn Thị Bích Huệ (2016) explored the syntactic and semantic features of English and Vietnamese weather proverbs using both qualitative and quantitative methods The study identified 15 semantic groups in English proverbs, with only 14 present in Vietnamese, notably excluding "warm." Interestingly, rainy conditions are prevalent in both languages, while sunny and flood conditions are more common in Vietnamese proverbs, and snowy, warm, and cloudy conditions are frequently found in English proverbs but absent in Vietnamese Some Vietnamese proverbs have English equivalents, yet they may represent different weather conditions The study's limitation is that it does not encompass all weather-related terms Similarly, Trịnh Thị Hương Giang (2013) analyzed marriage-related proverbs, employing a comparative and contrastive research method The findings revealed that both English and Vietnamese proverbs consist of noun, verb, and adjective phrases, exhibiting parallel structures While both sets of proverbs address aspects of material life such as faithfulness and solidarity, English proverbs generally maintain a neutral stance on marital life, whereas Vietnamese proverbs often convey more negative meanings.
“An investigation into proverbs with words denoting humans in English and
Bùi Thị Hoàng Mai (2011) highlighted that proverbs in both Vietnamese and English can be structured as phrases or sentences In English and Vietnamese proverbs that refer to human experiences, phrase structures are categorized into noun, verb, and adjective phrases Simple sentences dominate English proverbs, which are organized into seven distinct patterns, while Vietnamese proverbs commonly utilize three patterns, with symmetric structures of four words per half being more prevalent Additionally, Đỗ Thị Minh Ngọc (2010) examined English proverbs related to money and their Vietnamese counterparts, employing both quantitative and qualitative research methods The study primarily sourced samples from dictionaries, with a minor portion from literary works, revealing that Vietnam possesses a greater number of weather proverbs compared to England, characterized by agriculture-specific imagery and terminology.
The English are often linked to cattle breeding and fishing, reflecting distinct attitudes towards nature and differing perceptions of the relationship between nature and daily life This divergence is primarily influenced by climatic patterns and the dominant economic activities prevalent in each region.
This chapter is divided into two main sections The first section provides a theoretical foundation essential for understanding the study's objectives, with a focus on syntactic and semantic theories, including sentential structures such as simple, compound, and complex sentences, as well as comparative sentence patterns and symmetry It also explores field meanings and figurative language, including similes, metaphors, and metonymy The second section reviews previous research relevant to this study The following chapter will outline the methods and procedures that highlight the study's main focus.
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
Research Methods
In order achieve the aim and objectives of the study, the author adopts the following methods:
The study employed both qualitative and quantitative research approaches to analyze the syntactic and semantic features of EPWE and VPWE The qualitative approach focused on describing and interpreting the data, while the quantitative approach examined the frequency of different sentence structures and meanings in proverbs that include the word "eat."
- Comparative and contrastive research methods were applied to point out the similarities and differences in syntactic and semantic feature in English and Vietnamese proverbs.
Data Collection
This study's data were gathered from various English and Vietnamese dictionaries and publications, focusing on a selection of proverb dictionaries A total of 146 English and Vietnamese proverbs were randomly chosen for analysis Additionally, the author examined several cultural books to uncover the cultural values of both countries.
Data Analysis
The author was conducted with the following steps: luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Step 1: Analysis First, the author analyzed syntactic features of EPWE and VPWE In this stage, the author analyzed phrase and sentence structures of both English and Vietnamese proverbs with examples Then, the author counted the total number of phrase and sentence structures After having the results about the phrase and sentence structures, the quantitative research approach was used to calculate the distribution of these types In order to particularize the result, tables and figures were shown in detail
Similarly, semantic features of EPWE and VPWE are analyzed
The author conducted a content analysis of proverbs, categorizing them into five distinct groups to enhance clarity and facilitate reader comprehension of the study's findings.
The first category is proverbs about health
The second category includes proverbs expressing social relationship
The third category is proverbs about family
The fourth category is proverbs about human personality and behavior
The last category holds proverbs that show life experiences
The author elaborated on both the literal and figurative meanings of proverbs in English and Vietnamese Furthermore, the author consulted with experts and native English speakers to clarify the figurative interpretations of certain challenging proverbs.
Thirdly, the author analyzed stylistic devices of EPWE and VPWE and gave illustrative examples
Step 2: Synthesis and generalization After analyzing both EPWE and VPWE, the author synthesized all features to make a generalization about similarities and differences in luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si syntactic and semantic features; cultural characteristics between EPWE and VPWE and toshow the similarities and differences between the two cultures.
Validity and Reliability
The author conducted thorough research on relevant theories of syntax and semantics in both English and Vietnamese, alongside studies on proverbs, to establish a solid theoretical framework for the research.
The data for this study was meticulously gathered from reputable sources, including dictionaries and publications, ensuring high reliability for both English and Vietnamese proverbs In Vietnamese, the selected works include "Tuyển tập thành ngữ, tục ngữ, ca dao Việt-Anh thông dụng" by Nguyễn Đình Hùng (2014), "Kho tàng tục ngữ người Việt-Tập 2" by Nguyễn Xuân Kính (2002), "Tự điển thành ngữ và tục ngữ Việt Nam" by Vũ Dung (1993), and "Tục ngữ lược giải" by Lê Văn Hòe (1952) For English proverbs, key references include "The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs" by John Simpson & Jennifer Speake (2003), "The Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs" by Jennifer Speake (2008), and "Dictionary of Common English Proverbs" by Mohammed Attia (2004), among others The research methods employed are appropriate for analyzing the syntactic and semantic features of proverbs, thereby ensuring the study's reliability and validity.
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
Comparison and contrast of EPWE and VPWE in terms of syntactic
4.1.1 Syntactic features of EPWE and VPWE
4.1.1.1 Phrase structures a Proverbs with Noun Phrase Structures
(49) All meats to be eaten, all maids to be wed (Margulis, 2000, p.41)
(50) The bread eaten, the company dispersed (Margulis, 2000, p.135)
In Vietnamese: There are not any noun phrases in proverbs containing the word “eat”
Based on the examples above, the author can summarize the noun phrase structures of English and Vietnamese proverbs containing the word
“eat” in the table as follows:
Det + NP // Det + NP None
Art + NP // + Art + NP None b Proverbs with Verb Phrase Structures
(51) Don’t eat the calf in the cow’s belly (Margulis, 2000, p.233) luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
(52) Học ăn, học nói, học gói, học mở (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.379)
After analyzing the examples above, the author can summarize the verb phrase structures of English and Vietnamese proverbs containing the word “eat” in the table as follows:
None V + V c Proverbs with Adjective Phrase Structures
(53) Slow to work, slow to eat (Margulis, 2000, p.71)
In Vietnamese: There are not any adjective phrases in proverbs containing the word “eat”
Based on the example above, the author can summarize the adjective phrase structures of English and Vietnamese proverbs containing the word “eat” in the table as follows:
According to the statistics presented, the author illustrates the quantities of EPWE and VPWE in Figure 4.1.
Figure 4.1 Statistical summary of phrase structure of English and Vietnamese
Figure 4.1 illustrates three phrase patterns in English proverbs and one in Vietnamese proverbs, indicating that both British and Vietnamese cultures infrequently utilize phrase structures involving the word "eat." Notably, there are more English proverbs (5) compared to Vietnamese proverbs (1) Additionally, it is evident that noun and adjective phrase structures are absent in Vietnamese proverbs.
In English, the proverbs relating to the word “eat” only occur in three types of simple sentence: SVO; SVC; SVA They are illustrated below:
(54) Big fish eat little fish
Noun phrase Verb phrase Adjective phrase
English proverbs Vietnamese proverbs luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
(55) The proof of the pudding is in the eating
(56) You cannot eat for tomorrow
(57) Hùm dữ chẳng nỡ ăn thịt con (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.383)
(Dog does not eat dog.)
(58) Miếng ăn là miếng nhục (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.452)
Based on the examples above, the author can summarize the simple sentence structures of EPWE & VPWE in the table as follows:
The author conducted a detailed analysis of proverbs containing the word "eat" in both English and Vietnamese, identifying their classification within one of the seven clause types Notably, not all clause types are represented in the English and Vietnamese proverbs Table 4.4 illustrates the occurrence of these proverbs across three clause types, revealing that certain clause types may appear in English proverbs but not in their Vietnamese counterparts, and vice versa.
A compound sentence is formed by joining two or more simple sentences, often using conjunctions such as "or," "and," or "but," along with commas In Vietnamese, a comma serves to separate clauses Additionally, based on the Theme-Rheme structure, a compound sentence includes multiple Themes and Rhemes Both English and Vietnamese proverbs frequently feature compound sentences, particularly those that include the word "eat."
(60) Asses fetch the oats and the horses eat them (Margulis, 2000, p.124)
(61) Eat at pleasure, drink by measure (Margulis, 2000, p.72)
(62) It is not good to eat too much honey, nor it is honorable to seek one’s own honor (Margulis, 2000, p.64)
(63) Ông ăn chả, bà ăn nem (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.513)
(literally translated as: The husband eats hamburger; the wife eats spring roll.)
(64) Đạn ăn lên, tên ăn xuống (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.263)
(literally translated as: Bullets go up, arrows go down.)
The author summarizes the compound sentence structures of EPWE and VPWE in the following table For the latest thesis downloads, please contact via email at luanvanfull@gmail.com for master's theses.
A complex sentence consists of an independent clause connected to one or more dependent clauses, as defined by Quirk et al (1985, p.987) This structure typically includes subordinators like "since," "after," "although," or "when," as well as relative pronouns such as "that," "who," or "which." While this sentence structure is prevalent in English proverbs, it is notably absent in Vietnamese proverbs For illustration, consider two examples.
(66) He that will eat the kernel must crack the nut (Attia, 2004, p.86)
Main clause: He must crack the nut
Subordinate clause: that will eat the kernel
(67) If you won’t work you shan’t eat (Manser, 2007, p.140)
Main clause: you shan’t eat
A compound-complex sentence, as defined by Quirk et al (1985, p.987), includes at least two independent clauses and one or more dependent clauses The author observed that while studying proverbs with the word "eat," compound-complex sentences are uncommon in English and absent in Vietnamese.
In English: luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
(68) Give a man a fish and he will eat for a day Teach a man how to fish and you feed him for a lifetime
Through the data analysis, all the sentence structures in English and Vietnamese proverbs are summarized in Figure 4.2
Figure 4.2 Statistical summary of sentence structure
The analysis reveals that the total number of Vietnamese proverbs surpasses that of English proverbs Notably, over half of English proverbs (54.1%) utilize complex sentences, while Vietnamese proverbs predominantly feature simple (41.8%) and compound sentences (58.2%) Specifically, Vietnamese proverbs include 28 simple and 39 compound sentences out of a total of 67, contrasting with English proverbs, which consist of 14 simple and 14 compound sentences out of 64, both accounting for 22.2% The prevalence of compound sentences in Vietnamese proverbs (58.2%) is significantly higher than in English proverbs (22.2%) Additionally, unlike English, Vietnamese proverbs do not incorporate compound-complex sentences, particularly in those that include the word "eat."
Compound - complex sentence English Vietnamese luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
(69)The most dangerous food to eat is wedding cake
(70) A cake eaten in peace is better than two in trouble
(71) A broken bannock is as good as eaten.
(72) The less you eat, the longer you live
(73) Nhịn đói nằm co, hơn ăn no vác nặng (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.495)
(literally translated as: Fasting and lying down is better than eating and carrying a heavy load.)
(74) Ăn như tằm ăn rỗi (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.44)
(literally translated as: Eat like an idle silkworm.)
(75) Ăn như mỏ khoét (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.43)
(76) Ăn như rồng cuốn, nói như rồng leo, làm như mèo mửa (Vũ
(literally translated as: Eat like a flying dragon, speak like a climbing dragon and work like a vomiting cat.)
The data analysis summarizes the comparative sentence structures found in English and Vietnamese proverbs, as illustrated in Figure 4.3.
Figure 4.3 Statistical summary of comparative sentence structure
Figure 4.3 illustrates the statistics of comparative proverbs, revealing that both British and Vietnamese cultures utilize comparative sentences in their proverbs However, Vietnamese proverbs predominantly favor the same degree structure, accounting for over 80% of the total, while English proverbs employ this structure much less frequently, at only 25% Additionally, unlike the British, Vietnamese proverbs do not incorporate the highest and lowest degrees when making comparisons that include the term "eat."
Highest degree Higher degree Same degree Lower degree
English proverbs Vietnamese proverbs luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
4.1.2 Syntactic similarities and differences of EPWE and VPWE
The differences in syntactic features in English and Vietnamese proverbs are shown in Figure 4.4
Figure 4.4 Statistical summary of syntactic feature
Figure 4.4 illustrates the similarities between EPWE and VPWE, highlighting that both utilize simple and compound sentences, with a greater emphasis on compound structures Additionally, English and Vietnamese proverbs exhibit comparable patterns in their simple sentences, following structures like S + V + O and S + V + C, as well as in compound sentences, which can be represented as S + V + O / S + V + O.
Noun phrase Verb phrase Adjective phrase
English Vietnamese luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
Both English and Vietnamese proverbs share a common feature of parallel patterns in their sentence structures However, Vietnamese proverbs exhibit a greater frequency of parallel constructions compared to their English counterparts.
Besides the similarities, there are some differences between EPWE and VPWE
Vietnamese proverbs are less frequently found in phrase structures, occurring at a rate of 1.3%, while English proverbs are more diverse, with British proverbs utilizing noun phrases (2.7%), verb phrases (2.7%), and adjective phrases (1.3%).
The second notable difference lies in the variety of sentence structures used in proverbs English proverbs frequently employ complex sentences, particularly those featuring the word "eat," with a preference of 48.2%, while Vietnamese proverbs predominantly utilize compound sentences at 53.5% Additionally, there is a greater prevalence of simple sentences in Vietnamese proverbs compared to their English counterparts Overall, English proverbs exhibit four distinct sentence structures, whereas Vietnamese proverbs are limited to just two.
Thirdly, analyzing proverbs that conform to the theory of theme and rheme can be applied in the Vietnamese language
The key distinction lies in the approach to comparison; Vietnamese proverbs typically avoid using the superlative form when comparing people or things Furthermore, they tend to employ a greater variety of comparative structures compared to their English counterparts.
Comparison and contrast of EPWE and VPWE in terms of semantics
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4.2.1 Sematic features of EPWE and VPWE
Proverbs featuring the word "eat" in both English and Vietnamese encompass a wide range of meanings, reflecting themes such as health, human personality and behavior, social and familial relationships, and life experiences These aspects will be explored in the subsequent sections.
4.2.1.1 Proverbs containing the word “eat” refer to health
Health is an invaluable asset, emphasized in both English and Vietnamese proverbs Among 73 collected English proverbs, 7 (9.6%) pertain to health, while only 3 are found in Vietnamese proverbs This highlights a broader recognition of health's importance in English culture A proper diet is crucial for maintaining good health, a concept clearly reflected in these proverbs.
The British express the concept of strength through various means, including literal phrases like “Three things give us hardy strength: sleeping on hairy mattresses, breathing cold air, and eating dry food.” However, figurative expressions are more prevalent, such as the saying, “You are what you eat.”
The British place significant emphasis on meal timing, particularly the importance of breakfast The saying, “Eat breakfast like a king, lunch like a prince, and dinner like a pauper,” highlights breakfast as the most crucial meal of the day This meal serves to break the overnight fast and neglecting it can lead to negative health effects The proverb suggests that for optimal health, individuals should consume a hearty breakfast, tapering off their food intake as the day progresses.
The British highlight the health benefits of various foods, particularly garlic, onions, and leeks To maintain good health, it is essential to incorporate a variety of spices into meals, as reflected in the saying, “Eat leeks in March, garlic in May, all the rest of the year the doctors may play.”
The English proverb “Eat leeks in March, garlic in May, all the rest of the year the doctors may play” highlights the significance of spices for health, while the Vietnamese saying “Đói ăn rau, đau uống thuốc” emphasizes the crucial role of vegetables in maintaining well-being In Vietnamese culture, a healthy individual is defined by their ability to eat and sleep well, as reflected in the proverb “Ăn được ngủ được là tiên, không ăn không ngủ mất tiền thêm lo,” which suggests that good eating and sleeping habits lead to a worry-free life.
4.2.1.2 Proverbs containing the word “eat” refer to human personality and behavior
Proverbs in both English and Vietnamese that include the word "eat" significantly highlight human behavior and personality traits They often critique selfishness and the tendency to prioritize personal gain while avoiding risks, reflecting a common theme of wisdom and self-interest For instance, the English proverb “Fools make feasts and wise men eat them” illustrates societal unfairness, akin to the Vietnamese saying “Kẻ ăn rươi, người chịu bão,” which conveys that one person may do the work while another reaps the rewards Additionally, some proverbs address the lack of gratitude and ungratefulness towards those who have provided assistance.
(77) The bread eaten, the company dispersed
The proverb "Eaten bread is soon forgotten" highlights the behavior of individuals who exploit the generosity of others While they benefit from financial support and kindness, they quickly distance themselves once the resources are depleted This saying criticizes those who, after receiving help during tough times, become ungrateful and may even betray their benefactors, choosing to remember only the negative aspects of their relationships.
Besides, both British and Vietnamese people use proverbs to criticize greedy, lying, mean, lazy and pragmatic people, as in:
(79) Ngồi mát ăn bát vàng (Nguyễn Đình Hùng, 2014, p.139)
(i.e., Not work but enjoy all the benefits.)
(80) Ăn cỗ đi trước, lội nước theo sau (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.30)
(i.e., Think only of your own interests, not of others; choose the good part, the safe part, and push the bad part, the dangerous part to others.)
(81) Ăn thật làm giả (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.47)
(i.e., Be lazy, eating a lot but work roughly)
(82) Cố đấm ăn xôi (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.217)
(i.e., Suffer humiliation to reap the benefits.)
(83) Của mình thì giữ bo bo, của người thì thả cho bò nó ăn (Nguyễn Đình Hùng, 2014, p.66)
(i.e., Be greedy, selfish, not respect other people’s property.) luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
(84) If you want a pretence to whip a dog, say that he ate the frying pan (Margulis, 2000, p.27) (i.e., Not be courageous, irresponsible.)
(85) The crow bewails the sheep, and then eats it (Apperson, 2006, p.122)
(i.e., Pretend to be decent, but the heart is evil and cruel.)
(86) The cat would eat fish, but would not wet her paws (Margulis,
(i.e., Not work but enjoy all the benefits.)
(87) Envy eats nothing but its own heart (Margulis, 2000, p.73)
(88) You can’t eat your cake and have it (Speake, 2008, p.245)
(i.e., Be greedy, want all things)
Both British and Vietnamese cultures share proverbs that highlight the negative traits of individuals who repeatedly exploit benefits and perks, illustrating how they indulge in old habits despite their detrimental nature.
(89) Ăn quen bén mùi (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.46)
(He, who drinks, will drink again.)
(90) The appetite comes with eating (Margulis, 2000, p.16)
Proverbs offer valuable insights into human behavior and provide guidance across various aspects of life, reflecting deep educational significance In Vietnamese culture, there is a strong emphasis on being upright and sincere, with a focus on thoughtful communication that avoids causing harm to others Consequently, Vietnamese proverbs are frequently employed to encourage proper behavior and discourage rudeness in speech.
(91) Ăn bớt bát, nói bớt lời (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.26)
(A still tongue makes a wise head.)
(92) Ăn có nhai, nói phải nghĩ (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.29)
(93) Ăn trông nồi, ngồi trông hướng (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.49)
(Tactful and thoughtful manners in daily life.)
Proverbs (91) and (92) emphasize the importance of moderation in both eating and speaking, warning that excessive consumption can hinder digestion and excessive talking may lead to mistakes These proverbs encourage careful consideration before speaking and advocate for a balanced approach to food, reflecting the Vietnamese cultural values of moderation and respect The saying “Ăn trông nồi, ngồi trông hướng” illustrates this, highlighting the need for restraint in eating and the importance of politeness, particularly in the presence of elders Additionally, proverb (93) reinforces the necessity of appropriate manners and gestures in various situations.
In English, there are very few proverbs containing the word “eat” about human behavior We consider the following example:
(94) Eat at pleasure, drink in measure (Margulis, 2000, p.72) This proverb implies that you should not force anyone to eat and drink beyond his or her ability
Moderation in eating is essential for maintaining the health of the British population The saying, “Eat when you’re hungry, and drink when you’re dry,” emphasizes the importance of not overemphasizing food consumption.
To maintain optimal health, it is essential to consume only what is necessary for sustenance without overindulging in thoughts about food Practicing moderation in eating and drinking can significantly enhance overall well-being.
4.2.1.3 Proverbs containing the word “eat” refer to social and family relationship
In this part, the author presents Vietnamese and British viewpoints on relationships between parents and children, husband and wife, people and people a The relationship between parents and children
Vietnamese proverbs highlight the sacred bond between parents and children, emphasizing the profound responsibility parents have in nurturing their children to become good individuals In return, children are expected to show respect and obedience, embodying filial piety Disobedience and betrayal can hinder a child's development into a virtuous person, underscoring the importance of this familial relationship.
To affirm the role of parents in teaching and instructing their children, the Vietnamese proverb has a saying:
(95) Cá không ăn muối cá ươn, con cãi cha mẹ trăm đường con hư (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.105)
(literally translated as: Fish without salting will go rotten, children who disregard parental advice will inevitably go astray.)
To preserve fish for an extended period, salting is essential; otherwise, it will spoil and lose its flavor This analogy reflects the importance of a child's respect and obedience towards their parents, as parental guidance is rooted in deep affection and sincerity Mothers typically excel in nurturing, often surpassing fathers in their caregiving roles A child raised by a mother, even without a father, can still thrive, while the absence of a mother can lead to a child's suffering and vulnerability.
The cultural similarities and differences between EPWE and VPWE
Vietnam's economy has historically been rooted in agriculture, particularly wet rice cultivation, making rice and water buffalo integral to the lives of Vietnamese farmers Unlike in Vietnam, where buffaloes and cows are primarily used for labor, British farmers cultivate wheat and raise cows and sheep for milk, meat, and wool This cultural distinction is reflected in proverbs that incorporate animals, highlighting the unique linguistic concepts present in each culture For instance, the Vietnamese proverb featuring "con tằm" (silkworm) illustrates a specific cultural reference absent in English Similarly, the buffalo is a significant symbol in Vietnam, represented in proverbs like “Trâu buộc ghét trâu ăn” and “Trâu chậm uống nước dơ, trâu ngơ ăn cỏ héo.” In contrast, sheep hold a prominent place in British culture, historically linked to nomadic practices and wool production Consequently, English proverbs about sheep often carry negative connotations, as seen in expressions that liken sheep to obedient or foolish individuals.
(132) He that makes himself a sheep shall be eaten by the wolf
This proverb means that if you are too bashful, you will be dominated or ruined
Vietnam, a developing nation with an agricultural economy, sees a significant portion of its population relying on farming As a staple food, rice holds a central place in Vietnamese culture, leading to the creation of numerous proverbs that reflect its importance.
(133) Còn mẹ ăn cơm với cá, chết mẹ liếm lá đầu đường (Vũ Dung,
(134) Ăn cơm nhà thổi tù và hàng tổng (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.37)
(135) Ăn cơm với cáy thì ngáy o o, ăn cơm thịt bò thì lo ngay ngáy (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.32)
Rice is the staple food in daily meals for Vietnamese people and is a standard measure of their health, as reflected in the proverb, "Thật thà ăn cháo, láo nháo ăn cơm." (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.581).
(137) Cơm ăn đúng bữa, chữa bệnh kịp thời (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.220)
Britain has a long history of industrial development, with a strong emphasis on agricultural products, particularly dairy items such as butter, pudding, cakes, and bread Consequently, these foods are often featured in English proverbs, unlike rice.
(138) The proof of the pudding is in the eating
(139) They that have no other meat, bread and butter are glad to eat (Macadam, 2006, p.12)
In British culture, bread and various types of cake are more favored than rice, making bread a staple food in the UK This preference highlights the unique eating habits of the British people Interestingly, the phrase "bread and butter" is a rare example of a Vietnamese proverb that includes the concept of "eating."
Vietnamese agriculture heavily relies on weather conditions and crop yields, leading to the creation of proverbs that encapsulate the experiences of farmers in their labor.
(141) Ăn kĩ no lâu, cầy sâu tốt lúa
(142) Muốn ăn lúa tháng năm, xem trăng rằm tháng tám luan van tot nghiep download luanvanfull moi nhat z z @gmail.com Luan van thac si
(143) Nuôi lợn ăn cơm nằm, nuôi tằm ăn cơm đứng (Vũ Dung, 1993, p.506)
British people have a historical background rooted in agriculture, but they have since been influenced by industrial civilization As a result, English proverbs that include the word "eat" do not reflect the agricultural experiences of the past.