04051001898 The use of conceptual metaphors for marriage in English quotes = Việc sử dụng ẩn dụ ý niệm trong các câu trích dẫn bằng tiếng Anh thể hiện quan điểm về hôn nhân
INTRODUCTION
Rationale
Metaphors are crucial in both literature and everyday communication, serving as a fascinating linguistic phenomenon that has garnered significant research interest They are often defined as indirect linguistic expressions that convey specific messages, commonly associated with poetry rather than daily use Metaphors help individuals articulate thoughts and understand complex concepts like love, beauty, and happiness The conceptual metaphor of marriage, in particular, offers valuable insights, as a deep understanding of such metaphors in literature enhances comprehension of marriage itself Inspirational quotes, derived from authors' perspectives, serve as a rich source for exploring abstract concepts like love and marriage This is why I chose to focus on "The use of conceptual metaphors for marriage in English quotes" in my thesis, aiming to analyze metaphorical mappings related to marriage and provide explanations of its concepts, ultimately helping English learners appreciate the role of conceptual metaphors in both literature and daily communication.
Aims and objectives
The research aims to offer insights into the generations of the conceptual metaphors of marriage To achieve this aim, the research is designed to gain these following objectives:
- Identify the conceptual metaphors denoting marriage in English quotes
(Source-target domain pairings of conceptual metaphor for marriage in the English quotes)
- Investigate the linguistic expressions representing the source domains of the marriage metaphors.
Research questions
The study aims at finding out the answers to the following questions:
- What conceptual metaphors denoting marriage are identified in the English quotes?
- What linguistic expressions are used to represent the source domains for target domain marriage?
Scope of the study
This study examines the conceptual metaphors of marriage found in English quotes, analyzing the relationships between the source and target domains of each metaphor according to the conceptual metaphor theory proposed by Lakoff and Johnson.
Significance of the study
This study offers an overview of conceptual metaphor theory (CMT) and its application in identifying metaphors related to marriage It explores the connections between the abstract concept of marriage and various aspects of life through English quotes By doing so, the research highlights the functioning of conceptual metaphors and how individuals perceive marriage-related concepts in real life.
Organisation of the study
The study is organised into five chapters as follows:
Chapter 1: Introduction This chapter includes the rationale, the aims & objectives, the research questions, the scope of the study, the significance of the study, and the organisation of the study
Chapter 2: Literature Review and Theoretical Background This chapter presents the previous study related to the paper, giving a strong statement of the importance of this thesis and some theoretical background of this study
Chapter 3: Research design and Procedures This chapter mentions the aims, the methodology, data collection, and data analysis
Chapter 4: Findings and Discussions This chapter focuses on presenting the findings, and the work of analysing and discussing the results from which findings are drawn out
Chapter 5: Conclusion This chapter includes the summary, the implications, the limitations, and suggestions for further study
LITERATURE REVIEW AND THEORETICAL BACKGROUND
Theoretical background
On the basis of cognitive methods, there are three main characteristics of metaphor, namely the universality of metaphor, the conceptual nature of metaphor, and the systematic nature of metaphor
Metaphor is a universal phenomenon present in both written and oral discourse, influencing our thought processes Rakove and Johnson provide evidence of this through expressions like "Is that the foundation of your theory?" and "The argument is shaky," which exemplify the conceptual metaphor THEORIES ARE BUILDINGS Additionally, phrases such as “What he said left a bad taste in my mouth” and “That argument smells fishy” further illustrate the pervasive nature of metaphor in our language.
“Let me stew over that for a while”, reflect another conceptual metaphor IDEAS
Metaphor plays a crucial role in our daily thinking and actions, serving as a fundamental principle in human languages that enables abstraction It is essential to engage in metaphorical thinking, as research by Lakoff and Johnson reveals that approximately 70% of expressions in language are derived from metaphorical concepts.
Metaphor is fundamentally conceptual, serving as a reflection of thought rather than merely a rhetorical device or linguistic object It represents a cognitive organization expressed through language For instance, in English-speaking cultures, discussions about arguments are often framed through the metaphor of war.
The way we perceive and engage in arguments can vary significantly across cultures, influenced by underlying metaphors such as ARGUMENT IS WAR versus ARGUMENT IS DANCE In cultures where argumentation is viewed as a dance, individuals approach discussions with a different mindset compared to those influenced by the war metaphor This distinction extends beyond arguments to other concepts like LOVE, LIFE, THEORIES, and IDEAS, which are also shaped by metaphors such as LOVE IS A JOURNEY and LIFE IS A PLAY Ultimately, metaphors are not merely linguistic expressions; they are fundamental to our cognitive processes, reflecting the rich metaphorical concepts embedded in our understanding of the world.
Metaphor is systematic, producing numerous linguistic expressions that form a coherent network of ideas This is evident in the three conceptual metaphors of TIME: TIME IS MONEY, TIME IS A FINITE RESOURCE, and TIME IS A VALUABLE COMMODITY These metaphors illustrate how we perceive time in relation to money and limited resources, creating a unified system The notion that TIME IS MONEY implies that time is a limited resource and a valuable commodity According to Lakoff and Johnson (1980), these conceptual metaphors are interconnected, leading to a coherent system of metaphorical concepts and expressions.
Lakoff and Johnson introduced Conceptual Metaphor Theory in 1980, defining it as the process of understanding one conceptual area through another Kovecses (2002) further clarifies that a conceptual domain represents any coherent structure of experience The primary aim of this theory is to uncover metaphorical mappings between different domains.
The influence of domains on human reasoning and behavior is significant, as illustrated by Lakoff and Johnson's (1980) exploration of the war domain, which encompasses metaphorical language terms pertinent to this context Kovecses (2002) identifies two conceptual domains in metaphors: the target domain and the source domain.
Domain Target domain Source domain
Conceptual correspondences between the source and target domains are essential for understanding metaphors, as they consist of systematic mappings that reveal the meanings behind metaphorical expressions (Kovecses, 2002) To grasp a conceptual metaphor, one must identify these mappings, which highlight the relationship between the more abstract target domain and the more concrete source domain (Lakoff & Johnson, 1980) For instance, the metaphor of argument as war illustrates how the abstract nature of argument relies on concrete concepts from conflict to facilitate comprehension This reliance on the source domain underscores the complexity of discussing abstract ideas, as they often require concrete representations to be effectively communicated (Lakoff & Johnson, 1980).
The target domain and source domain must coexist, as the source domain provides a concrete and thorough clarification of the abstract target domain, enhancing the understanding of the argument.
Metaphor, as defined by Ritchie (2013), involves understanding and discussing one concept through the lens of another, highlighting the cognitive linguistic perspective that views metaphor as a fundamental tool for grasping complex ideas It transcends literary usage, reflecting a core aspect of human cognition Lakoff and Turner (1980) further elaborate that metaphor represents the expression of understanding one concept in terms of another, emphasizing the similarities or correlations between them.
Lakoff and Johnson (1980) assert that metaphor is fundamentally a property of concepts rather than merely words, serving to enhance our understanding of specific ideas rather than fulfilling an artistic purpose They emphasize that metaphors are not solely based on similarity and are utilized effortlessly by everyday individuals, not just those with special talents Furthermore, metaphors are essential to human thought and reasoning, rather than being mere decorative elements of language Conceptual metaphors involve two domains of thought, making their structure inherently complex Kűvecses (2003: 311-312) identifies ten interacting components that constitute a conceptual metaphor.
1 Experiential basis – this is the motivation for choosing which source domain goes with what target domain
2 Source domain – the source domain must be sufficiently different from the target domain, so that new meaning is in fact created, but at the same time the two domains share some important characteristics
4 Relationship between the source and the target – a source domain can apply to several targets and a target domain can be attached to several sources The
8 sourcedomain “war”, for example, is mapped onto target domains as different as love, medicine and business
5 Metaphorical linguistic expressions- the result of particular pairings of source and target domains
6 Mappings -basic conceptual correspondences between source and target domains
7 Entailments – additional mappings beyond the basic correspondences They are also known as inferences
8 Blends – material that is new in relation to both source and target
9 Non-linguistic realization- conceptual metaphors do not only materialize in language and thought, but also in social reality, for example the way people treat time like money in accordance with time is money
10 Cultural models – conceptual units that are larger than a conceptual metaphor
2.1.3.1 Target Domain and Source Domain
This metaphor is clarified through a mapping process that connects a source domain to a target domain The source domain refers to the original concept being mapped, while the target domain is the concept that receives the mapping (Saeed, 2005, p.346).
A mapping represents the systematic correspondences between elements of the source and target domains, with many target concepts deriving from the source domain Understanding a conceptual metaphor involves recognizing the mappings associated with a specific source-target pairing In his work "Metaphor and Emotion" (2003), Zoltan Kővecses explores the relationship between emotions and metaphors, revealing that numerous metaphors encapsulate emotions such as anger, happiness, fear, sadness, and love These emotions are mapped from distinct source domains that illustrate the target domain of the emotion Additionally, relationships are categorized into friendships and those built on love, highlighting various aspects of conceptual metaphors.
9 communication: experiences as objects, people as containers The state system metaphor reflects friendship as a possessed object and friendship as a bond The
Quotes
A quotation, often referred to as a quote, is the repetition of a sentence, phrase, or passage from a speaker or writer's text It can be presented in two forms: a direct quotation, where the exact words are reproduced and enclosed in quotation marks, and an indirect quotation, where the original words are paraphrased without quotation marks.
A quote is a precise repetition of a fragment of human expression, often sourced from literature or speech However, quotations can also originate from various forms of art, including movie scenes, paintings, and musical passages.
For example, “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” -Nelson Mandela
A powerful quote can serve as the essence of impactful art, enriching narratives and bolstering the credibility of press releases, news articles, or speeches Well-crafted words have the potential to create a lasting impression In the context of marriage, which revolves around love, trust, commitment, loyalty, communication, and understanding, thoughtful quotes can deepen your understanding and provide valuable insights into its true meaning.
People frequently turn to quotes for inspiration and motivation, as they encapsulate profound thoughts in just a few words These concise expressions of wisdom can illuminate the reader's soul, igniting hope, faith, inner strength, ambition, and motivation Consequently, English quotes serve as a rich and diverse source of inspiration for research.
Review of previous studies
Metaphors have been so far studied by many linguists in the world Metaphor
We Live By (Lakoff and Jonson, 1980) introduced his new view about metaphor and
Lakoff's theory has significantly advanced the study of metaphors, revealing that our thoughts and daily activities are influenced not only by intellect but also by our conceptual system Language serves as a crucial source of evidence for understanding this system Through linguistic analysis, it has been determined that much of our ordinary conceptual framework is metaphorical Lakoff and Jackson provided examples that illustrate how metaphors shape our perceptions, thoughts, and actions, concluding that the essence of metaphor lies in understanding and experiencing one concept through the lens of another.
Recent studies have focused on the conceptual metaphor of love and marriage, particularly highlighting Dunn, C.D (2004), who analyzed Japanese wedding speeches He identified three primary metaphors: marriage as a joint creation and as a physical union, which convey themes of new beginnings, cooperation, and emotional unity While both Japanese and American cultures share similar metaphors regarding marriage, they differ in their perceptions of the effort required; Americans emphasize "working on" relationships through open communication, whereas Japanese speakers highlight "working together" with emotional unity as part of cooperation Additionally, Johnston, W J., & Hausman, A (2006) expand the marriage metaphor to explore long-term business relationships, proposing an extended family metaphor to better represent firms within organizational networks, thereby enriching the understanding of relationship marketing and inter-family dynamics.
Conceptual thinking should align more closely with organizational realities, recognizing that organizations often engage in dyadic relationships within a network of interconnections Utilizing an extended family metaphor reveals additional stressors impacting these relationships, indicating areas that require attention to sustain them This perspective also emphasizes the dynamics of interactions beyond the dyad and their influence on the relationship The metaphor of the "Bridge" serves to illustrate these concepts effectively.
The article "Marriage Transition Period" by Betyl Gurkem explores the metaphor of the "bridge" in Turkish folk songs, symbolizing marriage as a significant transition This metaphor not only signifies the connection between two individuals but also represents the strength inherent in marriage While previous studies have examined cultural values and themes related to marriage, they primarily focused on the frequency of these themes without establishing clear connections between marriage and its source domains Additionally, the research scope has been limited to contexts such as wedding speeches and metaphors in long-term business relationships, resulting in a narrow understanding of the diverse source domains associated with marriage.
Besides, the research of love has drawn lot of attentions For example,
“Conceptual Metaphors of Love in Thai Pop Songs Produced by Nadao Music and
This research study, titled "Representation of Love in the Digital Age," analyzes the conceptual metaphors of love found in Thai pop (T-pop) music lyrics It builds on previous literature that examines romantic love across various music genres, focusing specifically on the characteristics of love in the digital era The study utilizes data from 24 songs produced by Nadao Music, available on YouTube from August 2019 to September 2021, and employs a metaphor identification procedure within the framework of conceptual metaphor theory Out of 166 identified metaphorical expressions, the study reveals that the target domain of LOVE is represented by 12 distinct source domains The findings also compare and contrast the conceptualizations of love in this study with those from earlier research, highlighting that love relationships are the most frequently addressed theme.
In the digital age, love is characterized by its representation in mass communication, where most linguistic expressions are seen as conventionalized metaphors, while only a few stand out as novel or creative This reflects the complex emotional state of love, which can be both an object of affection and a source of difficulty.
In Vietnam, numerous research papers focus on conceptual metaphors in cross-linguistic studies between English and Vietnamese Notably, Phan Thi Huong (2012) explores the cognitive metaphor "Love is a journey," examining how language users metaphorically represent the abstract concept of love through the concrete concept of a journey While existing literature highlights extensive research on conceptual metaphors, there is a notable lack of attention to the metaphor of "marriage," particularly in English quotes Consequently, this study aims to investigate the conceptual metaphor of "marriage" within English quotations.
A conceptual metaphor involves understanding one idea through another, where the source domain provides metaphorical expressions for the target domain In cognitive linguistics, these metaphors are systematic, reflecting a defined correlation between the structures of both domains They are ingrained in our language and thought processes, often operating unconsciously and automatically.
RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODOLOGY
Research questions
The study aims at finding out the answers for two questions:
(1) What conceptual metaphors denoting marriage are identified in the English quotes?
(2) What linguistic expressions are used to represent the source domains for target domain marriage?
This article explores the conceptual metaphors associated with marriage and examines how these metaphors are formed Additionally, it aims to identify the linguistic expressions that arise from the source domains of these marriage-related conceptual metaphors.
Data collection
This investigation explores the conceptual metaphors of marriage found in English quotes, specifically sourced from rich literary works The data is collected from reputable web-based resources like goodreads.com and pinterest.com While numerous works exist in English, the selected quotes are authored by individuals born and raised in English-speaking countries, including the USA, the UK, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand, ensuring the authenticity of the language.
This study employs a qualitative research approach, focusing on the collection and analysis of non-numerical data such as text, video, or audio This method aims to gain a deeper understanding of concepts, opinions, and experiences, providing valuable insights into the problem at hand and fostering the generation of new research ideas.
The collected data serves as a foundation for analysis, interpretation, and explanation It identifies linguistic expressions and conceptual metaphors associated with marriage, while also describing the semantic and cognitive factors involved in their usage.
This article explores 20 English quotes, utilizing descriptive and analytic methods for qualitative data analysis The descriptive method identifies conceptual metaphors related to marriage, grounded in conceptual metaphor theory Additionally, the analytic method is essential for examining the formation of conceptual domains associated with marriage.
Data analysis
The Conceptual Mapping Model (CMM) is a model based within the Contemporary Theory of Metaphor (CTM) (Lakoff and Johnson 1980, Lakoff 1993)
The Conceptual Mapping Model (CMM) supports the notion that metaphors involve six systematic mappings from source to target domains Unlike the Conceptual Theory of Metaphor (CTM), the CMM introduces a principle that connects these mappings This model can also be utilized for linguistic analysis of metaphors by breaking down metaphorical expressions into their constituent entities Essentially, the CMM serves as a method to uncover the underlying reasons for the pairings of source and target domains in conceptual metaphors, such as the metaphor "IDEA IS BUILDING."
Real-world knowledge [about buildings]
1 What entities does the source domain have? Foundation, structure, base, model, layout, cement, brick, sandstone, roof, wall, worker, window, door, plumbing, decoration
2 What qualities does the source domain or the entities in the source domain have? Shaky, high, short, strong, weak, flimsy
3a What does the source domain do? to protect, to shield, to the shelter
3b What can someone do to or in the source domain? [to live in, to build, to construct, to tear down]
Actual mappings/correspondences that exist between IDEA and BUILDING
1 What entities does the source domain have that are mapped to the target domain? Framework, foundation, model, layout
For example: The framework of this theory is loose
2 What qualities does the source domain or the entity in the source domain have that are mapped to the target domain? loose, shaky
For example: The framework of this theory is loose
3a What does the source domain do that is mapped to the target domain? Shake For example: His idea has begun to shake
3b What can someone do to (or in) the source domain that is mapped to the target domain? to construct, to take shape
For example: This group of scholars is working hard at constructing a theory
In conceptual mapping model (CMM), a six-step paradigm is used to collect and analyse the data This study follows these steps to analyse the collected data as bellows:
(CMM) Procedures of analyzing data
1 In the first step, speakers generate as many metaphorical examples as they can think of within a proposed target domain
The proposed target domain in the study is marriage Sixty-five English quotes as metaphorical examples are collected
2 Second, each speaker evaluates each example generated and groups it according to its source domains
Based on the English quotes collected, they are evaluated and categorized to six source domains: BUILDING, JOURNEY, FIRE, TREE, CUISINE, TRADE
Three key questions are posed regarding the understanding of each source domain based on real-world knowledge This knowledge is conceptual in nature, yet it can be articulated through linguistic expressions.
1 What entities does the source
Three questions are asked to know about 6 source domains in terms of real-world knowledge For example, the source domain BUILDING is illustrated as following:
1 What entities does the source domain have? [Foundation, structure, base, model, layout, cement, brick, sandstone, roof, wall,
2 What qualities does the source domain or the entities in the source domain have?
3 What does the source domain do?
What can someone do to or in the source domain? worker, window, door]
2 What qualities does the source domain or the entities in the source domain have? [Shaky, high, short, strong, weak, flimsy]
The source domain serves to protect and shield individuals, providing a safe shelter Within this domain, one can live, build, construct, or even tear down structures as needed.
The fourth step requires assessing whether the generated linguistic expressions are conventional or novel through group discussion If any group member finds a metaphor unusual, it will be excluded from the conventional conceptual metaphors.
Some linguistic expressions related to the source domain BUILDING are chosen
The fifth step focuses on examining examples to identify the linguistic expressions present in conceptual metaphors These mappings represent a specific subset of the correspondences found in the real world.
1 What entities does the source domain have that are mapped to the target domain?
2 What qualities does the source domain or the entity in the
1 What entities does the source domain have that are mapped to the target domain? Framework, foundation, layout
For example: A marriage with a strong foundation can stand against any storm that comes along
2 What qualities does the source domain or the entity in the source domain have that are mapped to the target domain? Strong
23 source domain have that are mapped to the target domain?
3 What does the source domain do that is mapped to the target domain? What can someone do to (or in) the source domain that is mapped to the target domain? strong foundation can stand against any storm that comes along
3a What does the source domain do that is mapped to the target domain? Build
Marriage is like a mosaic crafted with your partner, composed of countless small moments that weave together your unique love story To shape this relationship, individuals can actively engage in meaningful actions that contribute to its development and growth.
For example: A marriage was a house under constant construction
6 Sixth, once the actual mappings have been analysed, the correspondences that have been mapped are compared with what could have been mapped
A marriage was a house under constant construction
Marriage is a mosaic you build with your spouse
In this chapter, the data collection, procedures, data analysis have been presented In addition, the examples have been added to clarify the steps of analyzing collected data
FINDINGS AND DISCUSSION
Conceptual metaphors for marriage
The metaphor of a journey in relation to marriage highlights the transformative and challenging nature of this partnership As Fawn Weaver eloquently states, having a partner to grow with, love fully, and navigate life's storms is one of marriage's greatest blessings Just like a journey, marriage has a beginning, an end, and various obstacles to overcome Action verbs associated with journeys—such as begin, end, and embark—reflect the dynamic experiences within a marriage Additionally, descriptors like long, short, hazardous, and perilous resonate with the realities of marital life, illustrating the complexities and depth of this profound relationship.
Marriage is not the beginning of the journey, nor the end, they ended their relationship, they face many obstacles at the beginning of the marriage
The metaphor of marriage as a journey illustrates the relationship between the husband and wife as travelers navigating through life together Challenges in their love symbolize the obstacles faced during this journey Love is portrayed as travel, requiring the couple to overcome difficulties to achieve their shared goals This metaphor highlights the importance of reaching a joyful destination in marriage, emphasizing the connections between the concepts of marriage and journey.
Table 1: A set of mappings of marriage and journey
The journey of marriage is akin to a travel adventure for a husband and wife, where their relationship serves as the vehicle navigating through life's challenges Just as barriers on a road can impede progress, difficulties in a relationship can pose obstacles to their happiness The ultimate goal is to reach a fulfilling destination, symbolizing a happy ending Love at first sight and the vows exchanged mark the departure point of this journey, while continuous progress in their relationship signifies advancement toward their shared aspirations.
Marriage is metaphorically likened to a tree, characterized by its branches and leaves, symbolizing growth and longevity Just as a tree is nurtured and develops over time, a marriage flourishes through mutual understanding, which serves as its foundation The wedding represents the fruitful outcome of this love, illustrating the deep connection and commitment shared between partners.
In a marriage, the husband and wife serve as the roots of a tree, symbolizing the foundation of their relationship Just as love begins small and gradually expands, the couple's commitment deepens over time The seeds represent the belief and love nurtured in their partnership, while daily care acts as fertilizer for their bond As the relationship strengthens, it branches out, leading to the flourishing of leaves, fruits, and flowers, which signify a joyful and fulfilling life together This metaphor effectively illustrates the nurturing process essential for a successful marital life.
Table 2: A set of mappings of marriage and tree
The origin of the relationship → The root of the tree
Beneficial consequences of a love relationship, for example, children
The blossoming of relationship → Growth of a plan
Sustainability requires attention for growth
→ A tree requires fertilizer, manure, water, et cetra The most successful period of a love relationship
Fire symbolizes both light and warmth due to the heat it produces, but it also has the power to destroy and spread This duality makes fire a fitting metaphor for relationships, such as marriage Initially, couples may not get along, but over time they can develop a strong bond, as expressed in the phrase "get on like a house on fire." Conversely, conflicts can lead to a relationship's downfall, exemplified by the saying that a marriage can "go down in flames" after a significant argument.
Many couples begin their marriage filled with love, likened to a fire, where the fire symbolizes the cause, existence, and intensity of their affection, while the damage it causes reflects the psychological impact of love Just as a fire can ignite from a single spark, a small stimulus can accelerate a relationship's growth Initially, couples may not foresee that their love could eventually fade, as burnout typically occurs gradually rather than suddenly Over time, love and intimacy may diminish, leading to exhaustion To sustain this metaphorical fire, couples must provide mutual effort, akin to fueling a fire, ensuring their marital relationship thrives over the long term.
Table 3: A set of mappings of marriage and fire
Stages of being in love → Stages of fire burning
Beginning of the relationship → Spark the light
Duration of the relationship → The intensity of the fire
Efforts of a couple → The fuel to maintain the flame
The metaphor comparing trade to marriage highlights the economic principles of negotiation and value exchange inherent in both concepts Trade, characterized by buying, selling, and agreements, parallels the dynamics of a successful marriage, which similarly relies on effective negotiation and mutual benefit.
In a marital relationship, both the husband and wife collaborate based on a mutual agreement, aiming to achieve shared goals and profits This partnership mirrors a business dynamic, where the couple's commitment to each other is akin to running a joint enterprise The assets of this relationship reflect their love and dedication, with the overall performance of their partnership serving as an indicator of how well their bond is nurtured.
Table 4: A set of mappings of marriage and trade
Wife and husband → Partnership/ parties
Commitment, vows, responsibility → Agreement, contract
Memories, assets, children → Profits-sharing
Development of the relationship → The performance of the business
Marriage can be likened to cuisine, where each partner plays the role of a chef, and their relationship is the dish they create together Just as various cultures have distinct culinary styles, marriages also exhibit unique dynamics Some relationships are sweeter and more enjoyable, while others may have sour or bitter elements, reflecting different relationship statuses This metaphor highlights the complexity and diversity of marital experiences.
28 highlights the different stages of marriage life which may be wonderful or painful at times The mappings of marriage and cuisine is explained in the below table:
Table 5: A set of mappings of marriage and cuisine
Maintaining the relationship → Cooking and enjoying the dishes, the meals and enjoying a dish Relationship statuses → Tastes
The metaphor comparing marriage to building highlights the importance of teamwork, mutual respect, admiration, and love, as emphasized by Fawn Weaver's quote In this analogy, the husband and wife act as builders, collaboratively constructing their relationship The qualities of a strong marriage, such as stability and resilience, are likened to the materials used in construction The process of marriage mirrors the steps taken to erect a building, underscoring the couple's commitment to nurturing their bond This metaphor effectively illustrates the shared responsibilities and dedication required to create a lasting partnership.
Table 6: A set of mappings of marriage and building
The forming of marriage → Steps to construct a building
Efforts, beliefs, promises of a couple → Materials of a building
Metaphor fundamentally depends on mapping, connecting conceptual domains and life experiences This cognitive approach enhances our understanding of the habitual and familiar aspects of our daily lives.
29 experiences present themselves as a depository of instruments so entrenched in people‟s minds and ready for conceptualizing abstract domains
Cuisine is a well-known theme that encompasses notions of cooking, enjoyment, and the deliciousness of food People often use their perceptions of cuisine to conceptualize various flavors, leading to the popular use of this domain to describe both sweet and bitter moments in life.
Shelter is one of the fundamental needs of a person, akin to eating and drinking Buildings not only protect us from external elements but also provide a space for living and resting Consequently, buildings and their characteristics have become a significant source domain in conceptual metaphors As noted by Kửvecses (2010), both the physical structure of a house and the act of constructing it serve as common metaphorical sources Our understanding of buildings, their components, and the processes of building and maintaining them helps us conceptualize various aspects of our lives, including relationships, where marriage often draws on the metaphor of building to illustrate the formation of a strong partnership.
People often use plant-related concepts to metaphorically interpret life events, such as marriage Since plants are living entities that grow and evolve over time, their physical growth and characteristics serve as a fitting source domain for understanding relationships.
Linguistic expressions used to represent the source domains for target domain marriage
Marriage is often conceptualized as a journey, representing a path with both a starting point and a destination This metaphor highlights marriage as a purposive activity, emphasizing the idea of moving forward toward a goal Various aspects of a journey are considered in this context, and the intricate relationship between marriage and the journey metaphor is illustrated through diverse linguistic expressions, showcasing its complexity.
(1) Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress -Henry Ford
(2) The beauty of marriage is not always seen from the very beginning…but rather as love grows and develops over time -Henry Ford
(12) Marriage, the best destination is the journey itself -Diane Frivol
The metaphor "MARRIAGE IS A VERTICAL PATH" illustrates the concept that life experiences can be viewed as a journey with ups and downs This orientational metaphor aligns with the idea that good things in life are associated with being "up," while bad things are linked to being "down," as proposed by Lakoff and Johnson.
My marriage experienced its share of challenges, yet I always felt a strong foundation beneath it I long for that sense of security and deep connection with another person -John Scalzi
(10) Marriage is a roller coaster You have extreme highs and you can have some pretty extreme lows, but the ride is worth it -Teresa Collins
Table 7: Linguistic expressions used to represent the source domain JOURNEY
Beginning, embark, begin, the end, ending The starting point of a journey
Grow, process, develop, ride out, ride, mature, overcome, link, continue, guide, moment by moment choice, walk side by side, never-ending promise, going on
The advancement in place of a journey
Risk, challenges, adventure, ups and downs, came down, extreme highs, extreme lows
The barriers on the way
Destination, arriving The ending point of a journey
The metaphor of MARRIAGE as a tree is fundamentally ontological, illustrating how marriage encompasses every aspect of growth and development, much like a plant This analogy highlights the various stages of a relationship, including nurturing, flourishing, and ultimately bearing fruit, emphasizing the comprehensive nature of marriage.
(13) Marriages is a garden, take time to grow But the harvest is rich unto those who patiently and tenderly care for the ground -Darlene Schacht
(14) Love is a flower which turns into fruit at marriage
Marriage can be likened to a living organism, emphasizing its physical and intimate nature Just as a seed can flourish into a flower when provided with the right conditions—such as water, oxygen, sunlight, and nutrients—marriage also needs specific elements to thrive Love in a marriage requires nurturing and the right environment to blossom and grow.
(15) Marriage is a seed continuous watering makes its evergreen- Ota Okoyomon
(16) Happy marriages begin when we marry the ones we love, and they blossom when we love the ones we marry -Tom Mullen
(17) Marriage is watching the colour of leaves in the fall; ever-changing and more stunningly beautiful with each passing day -Fawn Weaver
Trees are living beings that grow, breathe, and thrive when cared for However, they can become unhealthy due to improper watering, lighting, or environmental conditions Similarly, love, like a seed, can flourish with nurturing or fade away without it.
(18) All of us blossom when we feel loved and wither when we do not feel loved.”– Gary Chapman
Table 8: Linguistic expressions used to represent the source domain TREE
Grow, blossom, plant, fruit Physical growth of a tree
Leaves, flower, seed, root, fruit Physical attributes of a tree
Rich, harvest Consequences of cultivation
MARRIAGE IS A FIRE serves as an ontological metaphor that portrays marriage as a dynamic phenomenon The similarities between marriage and fire are evident, particularly in how both begin with a spark that ignites a lasting connection This analogy highlights the essential elements that contribute to the foundation of a successful marriage.
(21) Friendship in marriage is the spark that lights an everlasting flame -Rick
(22) Marriage is a friendship caught on fire In the beginning a flame, very pretty, often hot and fierce, but still only light and flickering -Joseph Addison
The conceptual metaphor MARRIAGE IS FIRE highlights the shared characteristics of heat, energy, and intensity between marriage and fire Both are associated with power and warmth, representing romantic experiences that provide emotional comfort While fire offers literal warmth, marriage offers psychological warmth, leading to the interpretation of MARRIAGE AS HEAT This metaphor emphasizes the intensity, positive energy, and consumption associated with both concepts Additionally, being exposed to heat or warmth is generally perceived as a positive experience, albeit less intense than fire itself.
(24) Keep the fire lit in your marriage and your marriage life will be filled with warmth -Fawn Weaver
Table 9: Linguistic expressions used to represent the source domain FIRE
Spark, caught on fire, An initial step of making a fire
Hot, deep-burning, flickering, warmth The intensity of a fire
Flame, enlighten, lit The process of combustion
The metaphor "MARRIAGE IS A TRADE" highlights the collaborative effort between husband and wife, likening their relationship to a business partnership The quality of their relationship directly influences the success of their joint enterprise, with mutual agreements serving as the foundation for their love As they work together and share the rewards, the effectiveness of their partnership enhances both their emotional connection and the overall health of their marriage This conceptual framework positions marriage as a "JOINT ENTERPRISE," emphasizing the importance of cooperation and shared goals in fostering a strong bond.
(28) Motto for the bride and groom: We are a work in progress with a lifetime contract -Phyllis Koss
(29) Committing to staying calm is the first key to committing to staying married -Hal Runkel
(30) Marriage is a form of discipline involving two people committing to a certain lifestyle and set of boundaries -David Khalil
(37) Great marriages are partnerships It can‟t be a great marriage without being a partnership -Helen Mirren
Marriage is viewed not only as a bond or unity but also as an economic exchange between two entities In a marital relationship, couples engage in various forms of interaction, including communication, emotions, and behavior The concept of "give and take" is commonly reflected in everyday language, highlighting the reciprocal nature of these interactions.
MARRIAGE IS COMMERCIAL EXCHANGE can also be constructed These aspects are illustrated in below expressions:
(31) The more you invest in a marriage, the more valuable it becomes -Amy Grant
(32) A happy marriage is the world‟s best bargain - O.A Battista
(36) Marriage is a huge investment of time, of energy and of emotion Protect and keep contributing to your investment -Karen Gordon
(34) In a good marriage, each thinks he got the better deal
(40) Marriage is a partnership where both parties must give and take -Catherine Pulsifer
Table 10: Linguistic expressions used to represent the source domain TRADE
Union, join, compromise, contract, commitment, contribute, parties, partnership, discipline, partner, communicate
Invest, bargain, deal, repaid, take, give, work, gain
Value, beliefs, currency, allowances Trading profits
Immeasurable, valuable The value of the transaction
The metaphor MARRIAGE IS LIQUID is illustrated through expressions like wine, milk, and coffee, highlighting the flavors associated with this relationship Additionally, marriage is conceptualized as food, with terms such as breakfast, dinner, dessert, cake, butter, and bread contributing to this metaphor This conceptualization is further emphasized by sensory verbs like filled with and taste, along with adjectives such as fine, sweet, hot, and bittersweet.
(44) Being in a long marriage is a little bit like that nice cup of coffee every morning I might have it every day, but I still enjoy it -Stephen Gaines
(46) Marriage is a fine wine, if tended properly, it just gets better with age
(47) In Hollywood, a marriage is a success if it outlasts milk.”-Susan Vass,
(51) Marriage of course is bittersweet It takes the grace of God for an everlasting holy matrimony -Unknown
(52) Marriage is on sweet way in which one can taste heaven on earth -
(54) Marriage is a dinner that begins with dessert -Toulouse Lautrec
Marriage is often likened to a nutrient, emphasizing the deep desire for love and connection This metaphor draws on the concepts of nourishment, where the hunger for affection parallels the need for sustenance Just as a lack of nutrients can lead to yearning and negative consequences, the absence of love in a marriage can create a similar void The metaphor illustrates how the positive effects of a well-nourished relationship—such as fulfillment and health—are essential for a thriving partnership.
Marriage is akin to hunger; you crave it until you experience it Once satisfied, the desire diminishes, but this feeling of fulfillment is only temporary, as the yearning can resurface.
Table 11: Linguistic expressions used to represent the source domain CUISINE
Wine, milk, cup of coffee, filled with Liquid
Bitter, sour, sweet, hot, bittersweet, fine Taste experience
Eat, taste, enjoy The act of having the meals
Full, hunger The need or satisfaction of food
The conceptual metaphor MARRIAGE IS BUILDING illustrates how the source domain of BUILDING relates to the establishment and maintenance of marriage This metaphor leads to the ideas that ESTABLISHING AND KEEPING A MARRIAGE IS BUILDING A SHELTER and that WIVES AND HUSBANDS ARE BUILDERS In English, terms associated with constructing a shelter, such as "build," "construct," and "under construction," are commonly used to describe the formation and preservation of marital relationships.
(62) A marriage was a house under constant construction, each year seeing the completion of new rooms -Stephen King
(65) A long-lasting marriage is built by two people who believe in and live by the solemn promise they made -Darlene Schacht
A building is an architectural creation that necessitates meticulous planning and enduring effort Similarly, the establishment of a marriage can be likened to constructing a house, highlighting the significant work and energy required to foster a joyful partnership Just as a well-built structure relies on a solid foundation and strong pillars, a healthy marital relationship is supported by these essential elements.
(60) The pillars of marriage are held strong by uncompromising mutual love - Wayne Chirisa
(63) A marriage with a strong foundation can stand against any storm that comes along
As mentioned above, building is a time-consuming process from tiny pieces