Luận văn towards better understanding and using english proverbs

We can see clearly that the mumber of proverbs oreated by folk authors outweighs the number of proverbs composed by poets if these two theories are true According to English authors, th

TT VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, HANOI

UNIVERSITY OF LANGUAGES AND ENTERNATIONAL STUDEES

FACULTY OF POST-GRADUATE STUDIES

NGUYEN THI BICH TRANG

TOWARDS BETTER UNDERSTANDING AND USING

ENGLISH PROVERBS

IIVONG TOI VIEC DIEU VA SU DUNG TUC NGU TIENG ANIT

TOT IION

M.A thesis — program I

Field: english linguistics Code: 602215

TIanoi, 2008

VIETNAM NATIONAL UNIVERSITY, HANOI

UNIVERSITY OF LANGUAGES AND INTERNATIONAL STUDIES

M.A thesis — program I

Field: english linguistics Code: 602215

Supervisor: Assoc.Prof.Dr Phan Van Qué

Hanoi, 2008

THE TABLE OF CONTENTS

PART A: INTRODUCTION

1 Rationale

2 Objectives of the study

3 Scope of the study

4, Methods of the study

1.22 The definition of proverbs in the literature

2.1, An open or implied denial of the possibility of defining proverbs

2 A proverb is identical with its text

3 More complex definitions

3 A proposed definition

2.3.1, The necessary and sufficient conditions of a proverb definition

2.3.2 The proposed definition

1.24 The main types of proverbs

12.5 A note on the content of proverbs

1.3 Differences between proverbs and other related terms

1.3.1 Differenocs between proverbs and idioms

ILL Difference in culture

ILL.1, Definitions of culture

IL1.2, Differences between English culture and Victnamese culture

11.2 Differences in using melaphor in English and Vietnamese proverbs

11.2.1, English and Vietnamese amimal system in proverbs in comparison

Page

Ø1

In the 12" century, Mathieu de Vend«me (quoted by Bautier 1984) wrote

“A proverb is a papular phrase, accredited by custom accepted by the general opinion, expressing a truth that has been proved genuine”

In 1932, Bertlett Jere Whiting gave the following description: “4 proverd

an expression which, owing its birth to people, testifies its origin in form and phrase It expresses what is apparently a fundamental truth, - that is a truism- in homely language, often adorned, however, with alliteration and rhyme It is usually short, but need not to he; i is usually true but need not to be Some proverbs have both literal and figurative meaning, either of which makes perfect sense; but more often they have but one of the two .A proverb must be venerable;

it must bear the sign of antiquity, and, since such signs may he counterfeited by a clever literary man, it should be attested in different places and different times.”

(Whiting 1932, p 302)

Many previous definitions are sted in Whiting’s mentioned paper, in the book of Lutz Rohrich and Wolfgang Mieder (Robrich-Mieder £972) 55

“popular” definitions have been collected by Wolfgang Mieder in 1985 and the

recent paper of Peter Barta should also be mentioned in this context (Barta 1995)

Tf a classification of the proverb definitions is attempted, the [ollowing main calegories can be distinguished

12.2.1 An open or implied denial of the possibility of defining proverbs

Archer Taylor slates that, “The definition of a proverh is too difficult to

repay the undertaking an incommunicable quality tells us this sentence is

proverbial and that other is noi” (Taylor 1931)

Needless to say, such an incommunicable quality docs not exist In 1996, during a discussion of the Tokyo InlernaGional Proverb Forum, professor Mieder mentioned that Archer Taylor has probably considered it a joke Unfortunately, it has been taken seriously and 1s quoted over and over again, as it was done in

Tokyo too It might be enough to mention that not a mysterious

“incommunicable quality”, but among other- the curreney decides that a sentence is a proverb or not Lf we change only one word, e.g, the word “gold” in the English proverb “All that glitters is not gold” to diamond, then it is not an Lnglish proverb any more, although all the so-called “makers” would indicate it

as such Its currency is zero, it is not told so in this form

Matti Kuusi’s well-known statement that the proverbs are “documenta

humana” belongs to the same category: Thus the proverbs are defined by an undefined term, implying the possibility of defining proverbs

Malcolm Jones openly proposes a tautology involving an implied possibility of definition: “y shall take refuge in the tautology that a proverb is an expression we recognize as a proverbial”

2.2.2 A proverb is identical with its text

Some examples

«© “A proverb isa short sontence of wisdom” (quoted by Mieder 1989 p15)

© “A proverb is a standard statement of moral and colloquial imperatives in fixed metaphorical paradigmatic form, it deals with fundamental logical relationships” (Barley 1972 p.741)

« “A proverb is a general statement or judgement, explaining, classifying or assessing a silualion” (Harald Burger, quoted by W Micder 1877 p.2)

« “A traditional propositional statement consisting of at least one descriptive

© “Proverbs are popular fixed sentences expressing a nile of conduct or a wisdom in a vivid, short form” (Rohrich-Mieder 1977 p.2)

Tt has, however, been pointed out repeatedly that eg “two major

(Mieder 1996 p.597) The importance of the implied general meaning (general idea) was stressed by Matti Kuusi (Kuusi 1996) and Vilmos Voigt (Voigt 1970)

‘The implied scope and limitation of application has been mentioned before (Paczolay 1996 p.282)

2.2.3 More complex definitions

In addition to the definition of Whiting given previously, as examples some definitions are mentioned that include several, sometimes frequent, but not absolutely necessary characteristics, like poetic form, while important ones, like currency or the absence of a known author are missing Some examples: “A short pithy saying in common and recognized use a concise sentence often metaphorical or alliterative in form, which is held to express some truth ascertained by experience or observation familiar to all, an adage, a wise saw” (Whiting 1932)

« “A proverb is a popular set phrase having no author, known mostly in different languages, expressing in one sentence a principle, advice, a genuine

or assumed truth in a general, concise form, its basic idea being of general validity, or at least its user considers it as such” (O Nagy 1979 p.645)

“Where do proverbs come from?” is a question which is certainly still in

the forefront of debate today, yet, it remains comtroversial and no one can answer for sure ‘hus, it is no easy task to clearly point out the origin of proverbs L, therefore, propose accepting what many researchers in some most well- researched books agree

According to Vietnamese authors, there are two theories about the

occurrence of proverbs

«© The first theory: Proverbs were composed by poets

+ The second theory: Proverbs were created by unknown folk authors

We can see clearly that the mumber of proverbs oreated by folk authors outweighs the number of proverbs composed by poets if these two theories are true

According to English authors, there are three theories about the occurrence

© The third theory generally: Proverbs began that we stipulate the act of daily

life from our experience and proverbs are useful to each of culture and

social education

‘The truth is still not known, but the third theory seems the most appropriate

L2 Definitions of proverbs

2.1, Introduction:

The collection of proverbs dates back to millennia, to Sumerian cuneiform

tablets, and the theory of proverbs has also a long history Many papers have been published eg on the origin, definition, use, classification, structure, language, logic, meaning of proverbs etc In this paper some aspects of the definition of proverbs will be dealt with and some notes on the main types and content of proverbs will be presented

12.2 The definition of proverbs in the literature

In the corresponding papers many definitions can be found Professor

Mieder in one of his papers with admilled overslatement- puts that “We can almost state that there are more definition attempts than there are proverbs”

(Mieder 1989, p.13.)

“Where do proverbs come from?” is a question which is certainly still in

the forefront of debate today, yet, it remains comtroversial and no one can answer for sure ‘hus, it is no easy task to clearly point out the origin of proverbs L, therefore, propose accepting what many researchers in some most well- researched books agree

According to Vietnamese authors, there are two theories about the

occurrence of proverbs

«© The first theory: Proverbs were composed by poets

+ The second theory: Proverbs were created by unknown folk authors

We can see clearly that the mumber of proverbs oreated by folk authors outweighs the number of proverbs composed by poets if these two theories are true

According to English authors, there are three theories about the occurrence

© The third theory generally: Proverbs began that we stipulate the act of daily

life from our experience and proverbs are useful to each of culture and

social education

‘The truth is still not known, but the third theory seems the most appropriate

L2 Definitions of proverbs

2.1, Introduction:

The collection of proverbs dates back to millennia, to Sumerian cuneiform

tablets, and the theory of proverbs has also a long history Many papers have been published eg on the origin, definition, use, classification, structure, language, logic, meaning of proverbs etc In this paper some aspects of the definition of proverbs will be dealt with and some notes on the main types and content of proverbs will be presented

12.2 The definition of proverbs in the literature

In the corresponding papers many definitions can be found Professor

Mieder in one of his papers with admilled overslatement- puts that “We can almost state that there are more definition attempts than there are proverbs”

(Mieder 1989, p.13.)

1.2.1.1, Animal components in English

1.2.1.2 Aninal componenis in Vietame

112.13 Aninal components in Vietamnese and English in common

1.2.1.4 Animal components existing only in English

12.1.5 Animal components existing only in Vietnamese

1L3 Difference in rhythm and rhyme

113.1 Rhythm

A Rhythm of English proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

2 Types of rhythm

3 Function of rhythm

B Rhythm of Vietnamese proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

1 Factors creating rhyme 1.1 ‘the repetition phenomena

Chapter ITT: Imptications towards better proverb translation

TT How to wanslaic English proverbs ilo Viclnamesc ones

successfully

TIL2 Victnamese equivalent can be found

TIL3 Vielnamnesc equivalent cannot be found

11.3.1 We ear add or omit words to create thyme ( rhyme in suscession,

thyme in separation, relative rhyme or perfect rhyme)

III.3.2 Creazing rhyme by repeating »

TIL3.3 The proverb can be transialed ilo a Vietruamese six-cight meter

11.3.4 Creating two equal, parallel clause

11.3.5 Making tone symmetrical

Malcolm Jones openly proposes a tautology involving an implied possibility of definition: “y shall take refuge in the tautology that a proverb is an expression we recognize as a proverbial”

2.2.2 A proverb is identical with its text

Some examples

«© “A proverb isa short sontence of wisdom” (quoted by Mieder 1989 p15)

© “A proverb is a standard statement of moral and colloquial imperatives in fixed metaphorical paradigmatic form, it deals with fundamental logical relationships” (Barley 1972 p.741)

« “A proverb is a general statement or judgement, explaining, classifying or assessing a silualion” (Harald Burger, quoted by W Micder 1877 p.2)

« “A traditional propositional statement consisting of at least one descriptive

© “Proverbs are popular fixed sentences expressing a nile of conduct or a wisdom in a vivid, short form” (Rohrich-Mieder 1977 p.2)

Tt has, however, been pointed out repeatedly that eg “two major

(Mieder 1996 p.597) The importance of the implied general meaning (general idea) was stressed by Matti Kuusi (Kuusi 1996) and Vilmos Voigt (Voigt 1970)

‘The implied scope and limitation of application has been mentioned before (Paczolay 1996 p.282)

2.2.3 More complex definitions

In addition to the definition of Whiting given previously, as examples some definitions are mentioned that include several, sometimes frequent, but not absolutely necessary characteristics, like poetic form, while important ones, like currency or the absence of a known author are missing Some examples: “A short pithy saying in common and recognized use a concise sentence often metaphorical or alliterative in form, which is held to express some truth ascertained by experience or observation familiar to all, an adage, a wise saw” (Whiting 1932)

« “A proverb is a popular set phrase having no author, known mostly in different languages, expressing in one sentence a principle, advice, a genuine

or assumed truth in a general, concise form, its basic idea being of general validity, or at least its user considers it as such” (O Nagy 1979 p.645)

better understanding and using Hnglish proverbs In my view, the sooner learners can start to enjoy Unglish proverbs in their new language, the better

2 Objectives of the study

The objective of this study is to find out some common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using Linglish proverbs

3 Scope of the study

As there so many factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs, the study by no means investigates all factors concemed Some

of factors are not included in this study They are omitted simply because of

limitations of time, necessary, qualified and reliable resources, and of course the

imowledge of mine Furthermore, exploring and mastermg English proverbs is quite a large field, I, therefore, limit my study in a smaller one “Towards better

understanding and using English proverbs’ My study only looks for some

very main and common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs In addition, the study is confined to the context of understanding and using English proverbs iti Vietnam The problems discussed in

the study may be irrelevant or inappropriate in other contexts

4 Methods of the study

Dunng the implementation of the study “Tawards better understanding

and using English proverbs’’, throc main [ollowing kinds of methods were

employed: strategic methods, tackling methods and supporting methods Lel’s

have a look at those inothods respectively

4.1, Strategic methad

The strategic method contains inductive methods As for inductive

method, facts and figures which were relevant and csscnlial for beller

understanding and using English proverbs were collected carefully and analyzed thoroughly in order to draw common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs

4.2 Tackling methods

On the way to realize and decide the objectives of the study, 1 also employed a number of tackling methods namely description, classification, statistics, analysis and syntheses of data l'acts, figures and also examples illustrated for English proverbs were fully described and classified and then I put them directly into the analyzing and synthesizing process The results of the data analysis, synthesis and findings have helped me draw some factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using [nglish proverbs

1.2.1.1, Animal components in English

1.2.1.2 Aninal componenis in Vietame

112.13 Aninal components in Vietamnese and English in common

1.2.1.4 Animal components existing only in English

12.1.5 Animal components existing only in Vietnamese

1L3 Difference in rhythm and rhyme

113.1 Rhythm

A Rhythm of English proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

2 Types of rhythm

3 Function of rhythm

B Rhythm of Vietnamese proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

1 Factors creating rhyme 1.1 ‘the repetition phenomena

Chapter ITT: Imptications towards better proverb translation

TT How to wanslaic English proverbs ilo Viclnamesc ones

successfully

TIL2 Victnamese equivalent can be found

TIL3 Vielnamnesc equivalent cannot be found

11.3.1 We ear add or omit words to create thyme ( rhyme in suscession,

thyme in separation, relative rhyme or perfect rhyme)

III.3.2 Creazing rhyme by repeating »

TIL3.3 The proverb can be transialed ilo a Vietruamese six-cight meter

11.3.4 Creating two equal, parallel clause

11.3.5 Making tone symmetrical

“Where do proverbs come from?” is a question which is certainly still in

the forefront of debate today, yet, it remains comtroversial and no one can answer for sure ‘hus, it is no easy task to clearly point out the origin of proverbs L, therefore, propose accepting what many researchers in some most well- researched books agree

According to Vietnamese authors, there are two theories about the

occurrence of proverbs

«© The first theory: Proverbs were composed by poets

+ The second theory: Proverbs were created by unknown folk authors

We can see clearly that the mumber of proverbs oreated by folk authors outweighs the number of proverbs composed by poets if these two theories are true

According to English authors, there are three theories about the occurrence

© The third theory generally: Proverbs began that we stipulate the act of daily

life from our experience and proverbs are useful to each of culture and

social education

‘The truth is still not known, but the third theory seems the most appropriate

L2 Definitions of proverbs

2.1, Introduction:

The collection of proverbs dates back to millennia, to Sumerian cuneiform

tablets, and the theory of proverbs has also a long history Many papers have been published eg on the origin, definition, use, classification, structure, language, logic, meaning of proverbs etc In this paper some aspects of the definition of proverbs will be dealt with and some notes on the main types and content of proverbs will be presented

12.2 The definition of proverbs in the literature

In the corresponding papers many definitions can be found Professor

Mieder in one of his papers with admilled overslatement- puts that “We can almost state that there are more definition attempts than there are proverbs”

(Mieder 1989, p.13.)

In the 12" century, Mathieu de Vend«me (quoted by Bautier 1984) wrote

“A proverb is a papular phrase, accredited by custom accepted by the general opinion, expressing a truth that has been proved genuine”

In 1932, Bertlett Jere Whiting gave the following description: “4 proverd

an expression which, owing its birth to people, testifies its origin in form and phrase It expresses what is apparently a fundamental truth, - that is a truism- in homely language, often adorned, however, with alliteration and rhyme It is usually short, but need not to he; i is usually true but need not to be Some proverbs have both literal and figurative meaning, either of which makes perfect sense; but more often they have but one of the two .A proverb must be venerable;

it must bear the sign of antiquity, and, since such signs may he counterfeited by a clever literary man, it should be attested in different places and different times.”

(Whiting 1932, p 302)

Many previous definitions are sted in Whiting’s mentioned paper, in the book of Lutz Rohrich and Wolfgang Mieder (Robrich-Mieder £972) 55

“popular” definitions have been collected by Wolfgang Mieder in 1985 and the

recent paper of Peter Barta should also be mentioned in this context (Barta 1995)

Tf a classification of the proverb definitions is attempted, the [ollowing main calegories can be distinguished

12.2.1 An open or implied denial of the possibility of defining proverbs

Archer Taylor slates that, “The definition of a proverh is too difficult to

repay the undertaking an incommunicable quality tells us this sentence is

proverbial and that other is noi” (Taylor 1931)

Needless to say, such an incommunicable quality docs not exist In 1996, during a discussion of the Tokyo InlernaGional Proverb Forum, professor Mieder mentioned that Archer Taylor has probably considered it a joke Unfortunately, it has been taken seriously and 1s quoted over and over again, as it was done in

Tokyo too It might be enough to mention that not a mysterious

“incommunicable quality”, but among other- the curreney decides that a sentence is a proverb or not Lf we change only one word, e.g, the word “gold” in the English proverb “All that glitters is not gold” to diamond, then it is not an Lnglish proverb any more, although all the so-called “makers” would indicate it

as such Its currency is zero, it is not told so in this form

Matti Kuusi’s well-known statement that the proverbs are “documenta

humana” belongs to the same category: Thus the proverbs are defined by an undefined term, implying the possibility of defining proverbs

In the 12" century, Mathieu de Vend«me (quoted by Bautier 1984) wrote

“A proverb is a papular phrase, accredited by custom accepted by the general opinion, expressing a truth that has been proved genuine”

In 1932, Bertlett Jere Whiting gave the following description: “4 proverd

an expression which, owing its birth to people, testifies its origin in form and phrase It expresses what is apparently a fundamental truth, - that is a truism- in homely language, often adorned, however, with alliteration and rhyme It is usually short, but need not to he; i is usually true but need not to be Some proverbs have both literal and figurative meaning, either of which makes perfect sense; but more often they have but one of the two .A proverb must be venerable;

it must bear the sign of antiquity, and, since such signs may he counterfeited by a clever literary man, it should be attested in different places and different times.”

(Whiting 1932, p 302)

Many previous definitions are sted in Whiting’s mentioned paper, in the book of Lutz Rohrich and Wolfgang Mieder (Robrich-Mieder £972) 55

“popular” definitions have been collected by Wolfgang Mieder in 1985 and the

recent paper of Peter Barta should also be mentioned in this context (Barta 1995)

Tf a classification of the proverb definitions is attempted, the [ollowing main calegories can be distinguished

12.2.1 An open or implied denial of the possibility of defining proverbs

Archer Taylor slates that, “The definition of a proverh is too difficult to

repay the undertaking an incommunicable quality tells us this sentence is

proverbial and that other is noi” (Taylor 1931)

Needless to say, such an incommunicable quality docs not exist In 1996, during a discussion of the Tokyo InlernaGional Proverb Forum, professor Mieder mentioned that Archer Taylor has probably considered it a joke Unfortunately, it has been taken seriously and 1s quoted over and over again, as it was done in

Tokyo too It might be enough to mention that not a mysterious

“incommunicable quality”, but among other- the curreney decides that a sentence is a proverb or not Lf we change only one word, e.g, the word “gold” in the English proverb “All that glitters is not gold” to diamond, then it is not an Lnglish proverb any more, although all the so-called “makers” would indicate it

as such Its currency is zero, it is not told so in this form

Matti Kuusi’s well-known statement that the proverbs are “documenta

humana” belongs to the same category: Thus the proverbs are defined by an undefined term, implying the possibility of defining proverbs

PART A:

INTRODUCTION

1, Rationale

English has become an intemational language That is the truth that cannot

be denied As people all over the world wish (o gel closer and closer, English has

shown its great function as a great bridge of communication Mastering English means not only the ability lo speak English Muently but alse the necessity of

having a full and perfect knowledge of Fnglish culmme, history, lifestyle the shortes! way Lo access and gain hese knowledge, surely, is to gel to know English proverbs As clearly known, proverb is one of the most ancient kinds of Folklore which contain many distinguishing fealures of cach nation in lhe world

In Vietnamese, “proverbs are the sayings of people, a treasure of various and ‘‘Tive’”’ expressing forms that the labor class as well as many other different classes in society use to express their attract ideas, their deep thoughts of life

(Chu Xuan Dien- Victnamese proverbs)

In English, “Proverbs are so much the common property of all Hnglish

men that in conversation, it is often enough to repeat just the beginning of a

proverb, the rest is easily supplied by the other calculators’ (\W.1 Ball- Conversational English)

Lnderstanding Unglish proverbs, therefore, helps us understand more clearly about a nation, about its culture, history furthermore, exploring, comparing and contrasting proverbs in native as well as in target language will surely bring about a treasure of valuable knowledge and a more convenient condition for foreign language learning process

Ilowever, understanding and using Inglish proverbs effectively is very difficult for many reasons: differences in culture and history, poor background imowledge of learners, techniques and strategies in studying, proverbs

These ideas give me a tremendous impetus to implement the study

“Towards better understanding and using English proverbs’* This study is

an investigation inte factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using

English proverbs As an investigation, it brings insights into some of the most

common [actors which, Lo some extents, hinder learners from tastering English

proverbs Hopefully, this study will bring considerable effective contributions to

In the 12" century, Mathieu de Vend«me (quoted by Bautier 1984) wrote

“A proverb is a papular phrase, accredited by custom accepted by the general opinion, expressing a truth that has been proved genuine”

In 1932, Bertlett Jere Whiting gave the following description: “4 proverd

an expression which, owing its birth to people, testifies its origin in form and phrase It expresses what is apparently a fundamental truth, - that is a truism- in homely language, often adorned, however, with alliteration and rhyme It is usually short, but need not to he; i is usually true but need not to be Some proverbs have both literal and figurative meaning, either of which makes perfect sense; but more often they have but one of the two .A proverb must be venerable;

it must bear the sign of antiquity, and, since such signs may he counterfeited by a clever literary man, it should be attested in different places and different times.”

(Whiting 1932, p 302)

Many previous definitions are sted in Whiting’s mentioned paper, in the book of Lutz Rohrich and Wolfgang Mieder (Robrich-Mieder £972) 55

“popular” definitions have been collected by Wolfgang Mieder in 1985 and the

recent paper of Peter Barta should also be mentioned in this context (Barta 1995)

Tf a classification of the proverb definitions is attempted, the [ollowing main calegories can be distinguished

12.2.1 An open or implied denial of the possibility of defining proverbs

Archer Taylor slates that, “The definition of a proverh is too difficult to

repay the undertaking an incommunicable quality tells us this sentence is

proverbial and that other is noi” (Taylor 1931)

Needless to say, such an incommunicable quality docs not exist In 1996, during a discussion of the Tokyo InlernaGional Proverb Forum, professor Mieder mentioned that Archer Taylor has probably considered it a joke Unfortunately, it has been taken seriously and 1s quoted over and over again, as it was done in

Tokyo too It might be enough to mention that not a mysterious

“incommunicable quality”, but among other- the curreney decides that a sentence is a proverb or not Lf we change only one word, e.g, the word “gold” in the English proverb “All that glitters is not gold” to diamond, then it is not an Lnglish proverb any more, although all the so-called “makers” would indicate it

as such Its currency is zero, it is not told so in this form

Matti Kuusi’s well-known statement that the proverbs are “documenta

humana” belongs to the same category: Thus the proverbs are defined by an undefined term, implying the possibility of defining proverbs

L1 Origin of proverbs

Malcolm Jones openly proposes a tautology involving an implied possibility of definition: “y shall take refuge in the tautology that a proverb is an expression we recognize as a proverbial”

2.2.2 A proverb is identical with its text

Some examples

«© “A proverb isa short sontence of wisdom” (quoted by Mieder 1989 p15)

© “A proverb is a standard statement of moral and colloquial imperatives in fixed metaphorical paradigmatic form, it deals with fundamental logical relationships” (Barley 1972 p.741)

« “A proverb is a general statement or judgement, explaining, classifying or assessing a silualion” (Harald Burger, quoted by W Micder 1877 p.2)

« “A traditional propositional statement consisting of at least one descriptive

© “Proverbs are popular fixed sentences expressing a nile of conduct or a wisdom in a vivid, short form” (Rohrich-Mieder 1977 p.2)

Tt has, however, been pointed out repeatedly that eg “two major

(Mieder 1996 p.597) The importance of the implied general meaning (general idea) was stressed by Matti Kuusi (Kuusi 1996) and Vilmos Voigt (Voigt 1970)

‘The implied scope and limitation of application has been mentioned before (Paczolay 1996 p.282)

2.2.3 More complex definitions

In addition to the definition of Whiting given previously, as examples some definitions are mentioned that include several, sometimes frequent, but not absolutely necessary characteristics, like poetic form, while important ones, like currency or the absence of a known author are missing Some examples: “A short pithy saying in common and recognized use a concise sentence often metaphorical or alliterative in form, which is held to express some truth ascertained by experience or observation familiar to all, an adage, a wise saw” (Whiting 1932)

« “A proverb is a popular set phrase having no author, known mostly in different languages, expressing in one sentence a principle, advice, a genuine

or assumed truth in a general, concise form, its basic idea being of general validity, or at least its user considers it as such” (O Nagy 1979 p.645)

“Where do proverbs come from?” is a question which is certainly still in

the forefront of debate today, yet, it remains comtroversial and no one can answer for sure ‘hus, it is no easy task to clearly point out the origin of proverbs L, therefore, propose accepting what many researchers in some most well- researched books agree

According to Vietnamese authors, there are two theories about the

occurrence of proverbs

«© The first theory: Proverbs were composed by poets

+ The second theory: Proverbs were created by unknown folk authors

We can see clearly that the mumber of proverbs oreated by folk authors outweighs the number of proverbs composed by poets if these two theories are true

According to English authors, there are three theories about the occurrence

© The third theory generally: Proverbs began that we stipulate the act of daily

life from our experience and proverbs are useful to each of culture and

social education

‘The truth is still not known, but the third theory seems the most appropriate

L2 Definitions of proverbs

2.1, Introduction:

The collection of proverbs dates back to millennia, to Sumerian cuneiform

tablets, and the theory of proverbs has also a long history Many papers have been published eg on the origin, definition, use, classification, structure, language, logic, meaning of proverbs etc In this paper some aspects of the definition of proverbs will be dealt with and some notes on the main types and content of proverbs will be presented

12.2 The definition of proverbs in the literature

In the corresponding papers many definitions can be found Professor

Mieder in one of his papers with admilled overslatement- puts that “We can almost state that there are more definition attempts than there are proverbs”

(Mieder 1989, p.13.)

1.2.1.1, Animal components in English

1.2.1.2 Aninal componenis in Vietame

112.13 Aninal components in Vietamnese and English in common

1.2.1.4 Animal components existing only in English

12.1.5 Animal components existing only in Vietnamese

1L3 Difference in rhythm and rhyme

113.1 Rhythm

A Rhythm of English proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

2 Types of rhythm

3 Function of rhythm

B Rhythm of Vietnamese proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

1 Factors creating rhyme 1.1 ‘the repetition phenomena

Chapter ITT: Imptications towards better proverb translation

TT How to wanslaic English proverbs ilo Viclnamesc ones

successfully

TIL2 Victnamese equivalent can be found

TIL3 Vielnamnesc equivalent cannot be found

11.3.1 We ear add or omit words to create thyme ( rhyme in suscession,

thyme in separation, relative rhyme or perfect rhyme)

III.3.2 Creazing rhyme by repeating »

TIL3.3 The proverb can be transialed ilo a Vietruamese six-cight meter

11.3.4 Creating two equal, parallel clause

11.3.5 Making tone symmetrical

1.2.1.1, Animal components in English

1.2.1.2 Aninal componenis in Vietame

112.13 Aninal components in Vietamnese and English in common

1.2.1.4 Animal components existing only in English

12.1.5 Animal components existing only in Vietnamese

1L3 Difference in rhythm and rhyme

113.1 Rhythm

A Rhythm of English proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

2 Types of rhythm

3 Function of rhythm

B Rhythm of Vietnamese proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

1 Factors creating rhyme 1.1 ‘the repetition phenomena

Chapter ITT: Imptications towards better proverb translation

TT How to wanslaic English proverbs ilo Viclnamesc ones

successfully

TIL2 Victnamese equivalent can be found

TIL3 Vielnamnesc equivalent cannot be found

11.3.1 We ear add or omit words to create thyme ( rhyme in suscession,

thyme in separation, relative rhyme or perfect rhyme)

III.3.2 Creazing rhyme by repeating »

TIL3.3 The proverb can be transialed ilo a Vietruamese six-cight meter

11.3.4 Creating two equal, parallel clause

11.3.5 Making tone symmetrical

better understanding and using Hnglish proverbs In my view, the sooner learners can start to enjoy Unglish proverbs in their new language, the better

2 Objectives of the study

The objective of this study is to find out some common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using Linglish proverbs

3 Scope of the study

As there so many factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs, the study by no means investigates all factors concemed Some

of factors are not included in this study They are omitted simply because of

limitations of time, necessary, qualified and reliable resources, and of course the

imowledge of mine Furthermore, exploring and mastermg English proverbs is quite a large field, I, therefore, limit my study in a smaller one “Towards better

understanding and using English proverbs’ My study only looks for some

very main and common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs In addition, the study is confined to the context of understanding and using English proverbs iti Vietnam The problems discussed in

the study may be irrelevant or inappropriate in other contexts

4 Methods of the study

Dunng the implementation of the study “Tawards better understanding

and using English proverbs’’, throc main [ollowing kinds of methods were

employed: strategic methods, tackling methods and supporting methods Lel’s

have a look at those inothods respectively

4.1, Strategic methad

The strategic method contains inductive methods As for inductive

method, facts and figures which were relevant and csscnlial for beller

understanding and using English proverbs were collected carefully and analyzed thoroughly in order to draw common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs

4.2 Tackling methods

On the way to realize and decide the objectives of the study, 1 also employed a number of tackling methods namely description, classification, statistics, analysis and syntheses of data l'acts, figures and also examples illustrated for English proverbs were fully described and classified and then I put them directly into the analyzing and synthesizing process The results of the data analysis, synthesis and findings have helped me draw some factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using [nglish proverbs

better understanding and using Hnglish proverbs In my view, the sooner learners can start to enjoy Unglish proverbs in their new language, the better

2 Objectives of the study

The objective of this study is to find out some common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using Linglish proverbs

3 Scope of the study

As there so many factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs, the study by no means investigates all factors concemed Some

of factors are not included in this study They are omitted simply because of

limitations of time, necessary, qualified and reliable resources, and of course the

imowledge of mine Furthermore, exploring and mastermg English proverbs is quite a large field, I, therefore, limit my study in a smaller one “Towards better

understanding and using English proverbs’ My study only looks for some

very main and common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs In addition, the study is confined to the context of understanding and using English proverbs iti Vietnam The problems discussed in

the study may be irrelevant or inappropriate in other contexts

4 Methods of the study

Dunng the implementation of the study “Tawards better understanding

and using English proverbs’’, throc main [ollowing kinds of methods were

employed: strategic methods, tackling methods and supporting methods Lel’s

have a look at those inothods respectively

4.1, Strategic methad

The strategic method contains inductive methods As for inductive

method, facts and figures which were relevant and csscnlial for beller

understanding and using English proverbs were collected carefully and analyzed thoroughly in order to draw common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs

4.2 Tackling methods

On the way to realize and decide the objectives of the study, 1 also employed a number of tackling methods namely description, classification, statistics, analysis and syntheses of data l'acts, figures and also examples illustrated for English proverbs were fully described and classified and then I put them directly into the analyzing and synthesizing process The results of the data analysis, synthesis and findings have helped me draw some factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using [nglish proverbs

PART A:

INTRODUCTION

1, Rationale

English has become an intemational language That is the truth that cannot

be denied As people all over the world wish (o gel closer and closer, English has

shown its great function as a great bridge of communication Mastering English means not only the ability lo speak English Muently but alse the necessity of

having a full and perfect knowledge of Fnglish culmme, history, lifestyle the shortes! way Lo access and gain hese knowledge, surely, is to gel to know English proverbs As clearly known, proverb is one of the most ancient kinds of Folklore which contain many distinguishing fealures of cach nation in lhe world

In Vietnamese, “proverbs are the sayings of people, a treasure of various and ‘‘Tive’”’ expressing forms that the labor class as well as many other different classes in society use to express their attract ideas, their deep thoughts of life

(Chu Xuan Dien- Victnamese proverbs)

In English, “Proverbs are so much the common property of all Hnglish

men that in conversation, it is often enough to repeat just the beginning of a

proverb, the rest is easily supplied by the other calculators’ (\W.1 Ball- Conversational English)

Lnderstanding Unglish proverbs, therefore, helps us understand more clearly about a nation, about its culture, history furthermore, exploring, comparing and contrasting proverbs in native as well as in target language will surely bring about a treasure of valuable knowledge and a more convenient condition for foreign language learning process

Ilowever, understanding and using Inglish proverbs effectively is very difficult for many reasons: differences in culture and history, poor background imowledge of learners, techniques and strategies in studying, proverbs

These ideas give me a tremendous impetus to implement the study

“Towards better understanding and using English proverbs’* This study is

an investigation inte factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using

English proverbs As an investigation, it brings insights into some of the most

common [actors which, Lo some extents, hinder learners from tastering English

proverbs Hopefully, this study will bring considerable effective contributions to

Malcolm Jones openly proposes a tautology involving an implied possibility of definition: “y shall take refuge in the tautology that a proverb is an expression we recognize as a proverbial”

2.2.2 A proverb is identical with its text

Some examples

«© “A proverb isa short sontence of wisdom” (quoted by Mieder 1989 p15)

© “A proverb is a standard statement of moral and colloquial imperatives in fixed metaphorical paradigmatic form, it deals with fundamental logical relationships” (Barley 1972 p.741)

« “A proverb is a general statement or judgement, explaining, classifying or assessing a silualion” (Harald Burger, quoted by W Micder 1877 p.2)

« “A traditional propositional statement consisting of at least one descriptive

© “Proverbs are popular fixed sentences expressing a nile of conduct or a wisdom in a vivid, short form” (Rohrich-Mieder 1977 p.2)

Tt has, however, been pointed out repeatedly that eg “two major

(Mieder 1996 p.597) The importance of the implied general meaning (general idea) was stressed by Matti Kuusi (Kuusi 1996) and Vilmos Voigt (Voigt 1970)

‘The implied scope and limitation of application has been mentioned before (Paczolay 1996 p.282)

2.2.3 More complex definitions

In addition to the definition of Whiting given previously, as examples some definitions are mentioned that include several, sometimes frequent, but not absolutely necessary characteristics, like poetic form, while important ones, like currency or the absence of a known author are missing Some examples: “A short pithy saying in common and recognized use a concise sentence often metaphorical or alliterative in form, which is held to express some truth ascertained by experience or observation familiar to all, an adage, a wise saw” (Whiting 1932)

« “A proverb is a popular set phrase having no author, known mostly in different languages, expressing in one sentence a principle, advice, a genuine

or assumed truth in a general, concise form, its basic idea being of general validity, or at least its user considers it as such” (O Nagy 1979 p.645)

1.2.1.1, Animal components in English

1.2.1.2 Aninal componenis in Vietame

112.13 Aninal components in Vietamnese and English in common

1.2.1.4 Animal components existing only in English

12.1.5 Animal components existing only in Vietnamese

1L3 Difference in rhythm and rhyme

113.1 Rhythm

A Rhythm of English proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

2 Types of rhythm

3 Function of rhythm

B Rhythm of Vietnamese proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

1 Factors creating rhyme 1.1 ‘the repetition phenomena

Chapter ITT: Imptications towards better proverb translation

TT How to wanslaic English proverbs ilo Viclnamesc ones

successfully

TIL2 Victnamese equivalent can be found

TIL3 Vielnamnesc equivalent cannot be found

11.3.1 We ear add or omit words to create thyme ( rhyme in suscession,

thyme in separation, relative rhyme or perfect rhyme)

III.3.2 Creazing rhyme by repeating »

TIL3.3 The proverb can be transialed ilo a Vietruamese six-cight meter

11.3.4 Creating two equal, parallel clause

11.3.5 Making tone symmetrical

“Where do proverbs come from?” is a question which is certainly still in

the forefront of debate today, yet, it remains comtroversial and no one can answer for sure ‘hus, it is no easy task to clearly point out the origin of proverbs L, therefore, propose accepting what many researchers in some most well- researched books agree

According to Vietnamese authors, there are two theories about the

occurrence of proverbs

«© The first theory: Proverbs were composed by poets

+ The second theory: Proverbs were created by unknown folk authors

We can see clearly that the mumber of proverbs oreated by folk authors outweighs the number of proverbs composed by poets if these two theories are true

According to English authors, there are three theories about the occurrence

© The third theory generally: Proverbs began that we stipulate the act of daily

life from our experience and proverbs are useful to each of culture and

social education

‘The truth is still not known, but the third theory seems the most appropriate

L2 Definitions of proverbs

2.1, Introduction:

The collection of proverbs dates back to millennia, to Sumerian cuneiform

tablets, and the theory of proverbs has also a long history Many papers have been published eg on the origin, definition, use, classification, structure, language, logic, meaning of proverbs etc In this paper some aspects of the definition of proverbs will be dealt with and some notes on the main types and content of proverbs will be presented

12.2 The definition of proverbs in the literature

In the corresponding papers many definitions can be found Professor

Mieder in one of his papers with admilled overslatement- puts that “We can almost state that there are more definition attempts than there are proverbs”

(Mieder 1989, p.13.)

Malcolm Jones openly proposes a tautology involving an implied possibility of definition: “y shall take refuge in the tautology that a proverb is an expression we recognize as a proverbial”

2.2.2 A proverb is identical with its text

Some examples

«© “A proverb isa short sontence of wisdom” (quoted by Mieder 1989 p15)

© “A proverb is a standard statement of moral and colloquial imperatives in fixed metaphorical paradigmatic form, it deals with fundamental logical relationships” (Barley 1972 p.741)

« “A proverb is a general statement or judgement, explaining, classifying or assessing a silualion” (Harald Burger, quoted by W Micder 1877 p.2)

« “A traditional propositional statement consisting of at least one descriptive

© “Proverbs are popular fixed sentences expressing a nile of conduct or a wisdom in a vivid, short form” (Rohrich-Mieder 1977 p.2)

Tt has, however, been pointed out repeatedly that eg “two major

(Mieder 1996 p.597) The importance of the implied general meaning (general idea) was stressed by Matti Kuusi (Kuusi 1996) and Vilmos Voigt (Voigt 1970)

‘The implied scope and limitation of application has been mentioned before (Paczolay 1996 p.282)

2.2.3 More complex definitions

In addition to the definition of Whiting given previously, as examples some definitions are mentioned that include several, sometimes frequent, but not absolutely necessary characteristics, like poetic form, while important ones, like currency or the absence of a known author are missing Some examples: “A short pithy saying in common and recognized use a concise sentence often metaphorical or alliterative in form, which is held to express some truth ascertained by experience or observation familiar to all, an adage, a wise saw” (Whiting 1932)

« “A proverb is a popular set phrase having no author, known mostly in different languages, expressing in one sentence a principle, advice, a genuine

or assumed truth in a general, concise form, its basic idea being of general validity, or at least its user considers it as such” (O Nagy 1979 p.645)

L1 Origin of proverbs

Malcolm Jones openly proposes a tautology involving an implied possibility of definition: “y shall take refuge in the tautology that a proverb is an expression we recognize as a proverbial”

2.2.2 A proverb is identical with its text

Some examples

«© “A proverb isa short sontence of wisdom” (quoted by Mieder 1989 p15)

© “A proverb is a standard statement of moral and colloquial imperatives in fixed metaphorical paradigmatic form, it deals with fundamental logical relationships” (Barley 1972 p.741)

« “A proverb is a general statement or judgement, explaining, classifying or assessing a silualion” (Harald Burger, quoted by W Micder 1877 p.2)

« “A traditional propositional statement consisting of at least one descriptive

© “Proverbs are popular fixed sentences expressing a nile of conduct or a wisdom in a vivid, short form” (Rohrich-Mieder 1977 p.2)

Tt has, however, been pointed out repeatedly that eg “two major

(Mieder 1996 p.597) The importance of the implied general meaning (general idea) was stressed by Matti Kuusi (Kuusi 1996) and Vilmos Voigt (Voigt 1970)

‘The implied scope and limitation of application has been mentioned before (Paczolay 1996 p.282)

2.2.3 More complex definitions

In addition to the definition of Whiting given previously, as examples some definitions are mentioned that include several, sometimes frequent, but not absolutely necessary characteristics, like poetic form, while important ones, like currency or the absence of a known author are missing Some examples: “A short pithy saying in common and recognized use a concise sentence often metaphorical or alliterative in form, which is held to express some truth ascertained by experience or observation familiar to all, an adage, a wise saw” (Whiting 1932)

« “A proverb is a popular set phrase having no author, known mostly in different languages, expressing in one sentence a principle, advice, a genuine

or assumed truth in a general, concise form, its basic idea being of general validity, or at least its user considers it as such” (O Nagy 1979 p.645)

In the 12" century, Mathieu de Vend«me (quoted by Bautier 1984) wrote

“A proverb is a papular phrase, accredited by custom accepted by the general opinion, expressing a truth that has been proved genuine”

In 1932, Bertlett Jere Whiting gave the following description: “4 proverd

an expression which, owing its birth to people, testifies its origin in form and phrase It expresses what is apparently a fundamental truth, - that is a truism- in homely language, often adorned, however, with alliteration and rhyme It is usually short, but need not to he; i is usually true but need not to be Some proverbs have both literal and figurative meaning, either of which makes perfect sense; but more often they have but one of the two .A proverb must be venerable;

it must bear the sign of antiquity, and, since such signs may he counterfeited by a clever literary man, it should be attested in different places and different times.”

(Whiting 1932, p 302)

Many previous definitions are sted in Whiting’s mentioned paper, in the book of Lutz Rohrich and Wolfgang Mieder (Robrich-Mieder £972) 55

“popular” definitions have been collected by Wolfgang Mieder in 1985 and the

recent paper of Peter Barta should also be mentioned in this context (Barta 1995)

Tf a classification of the proverb definitions is attempted, the [ollowing main calegories can be distinguished

12.2.1 An open or implied denial of the possibility of defining proverbs

Archer Taylor slates that, “The definition of a proverh is too difficult to

repay the undertaking an incommunicable quality tells us this sentence is

proverbial and that other is noi” (Taylor 1931)

Needless to say, such an incommunicable quality docs not exist In 1996, during a discussion of the Tokyo InlernaGional Proverb Forum, professor Mieder mentioned that Archer Taylor has probably considered it a joke Unfortunately, it has been taken seriously and 1s quoted over and over again, as it was done in

Tokyo too It might be enough to mention that not a mysterious

“incommunicable quality”, but among other- the curreney decides that a sentence is a proverb or not Lf we change only one word, e.g, the word “gold” in the English proverb “All that glitters is not gold” to diamond, then it is not an Lnglish proverb any more, although all the so-called “makers” would indicate it

as such Its currency is zero, it is not told so in this form

Matti Kuusi’s well-known statement that the proverbs are “documenta

humana” belongs to the same category: Thus the proverbs are defined by an undefined term, implying the possibility of defining proverbs

L1 Origin of proverbs

“Where do proverbs come from?” is a question which is certainly still in

the forefront of debate today, yet, it remains comtroversial and no one can answer for sure ‘hus, it is no easy task to clearly point out the origin of proverbs L, therefore, propose accepting what many researchers in some most well- researched books agree

According to Vietnamese authors, there are two theories about the

occurrence of proverbs

«© The first theory: Proverbs were composed by poets

+ The second theory: Proverbs were created by unknown folk authors

We can see clearly that the mumber of proverbs oreated by folk authors outweighs the number of proverbs composed by poets if these two theories are true

According to English authors, there are three theories about the occurrence

© The third theory generally: Proverbs began that we stipulate the act of daily

life from our experience and proverbs are useful to each of culture and

social education

‘The truth is still not known, but the third theory seems the most appropriate

L2 Definitions of proverbs

2.1, Introduction:

The collection of proverbs dates back to millennia, to Sumerian cuneiform

tablets, and the theory of proverbs has also a long history Many papers have been published eg on the origin, definition, use, classification, structure, language, logic, meaning of proverbs etc In this paper some aspects of the definition of proverbs will be dealt with and some notes on the main types and content of proverbs will be presented

12.2 The definition of proverbs in the literature

In the corresponding papers many definitions can be found Professor

Mieder in one of his papers with admilled overslatement- puts that “We can almost state that there are more definition attempts than there are proverbs”

(Mieder 1989, p.13.)

better understanding and using Hnglish proverbs In my view, the sooner learners can start to enjoy Unglish proverbs in their new language, the better

2 Objectives of the study

The objective of this study is to find out some common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using Linglish proverbs

3 Scope of the study

As there so many factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs, the study by no means investigates all factors concemed Some

of factors are not included in this study They are omitted simply because of

limitations of time, necessary, qualified and reliable resources, and of course the

imowledge of mine Furthermore, exploring and mastermg English proverbs is quite a large field, I, therefore, limit my study in a smaller one “Towards better

understanding and using English proverbs’ My study only looks for some

very main and common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs In addition, the study is confined to the context of understanding and using English proverbs iti Vietnam The problems discussed in

the study may be irrelevant or inappropriate in other contexts

4 Methods of the study

Dunng the implementation of the study “Tawards better understanding

and using English proverbs’’, throc main [ollowing kinds of methods were

employed: strategic methods, tackling methods and supporting methods Lel’s

have a look at those inothods respectively

4.1, Strategic methad

The strategic method contains inductive methods As for inductive

method, facts and figures which were relevant and csscnlial for beller

understanding and using English proverbs were collected carefully and analyzed thoroughly in order to draw common factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using English proverbs

4.2 Tackling methods

On the way to realize and decide the objectives of the study, 1 also employed a number of tackling methods namely description, classification, statistics, analysis and syntheses of data l'acts, figures and also examples illustrated for English proverbs were fully described and classified and then I put them directly into the analyzing and synthesizing process The results of the data analysis, synthesis and findings have helped me draw some factors leading to difficulties in understanding and using [nglish proverbs

1.2.1.1, Animal components in English

1.2.1.2 Aninal componenis in Vietame

112.13 Aninal components in Vietamnese and English in common

1.2.1.4 Animal components existing only in English

12.1.5 Animal components existing only in Vietnamese

1L3 Difference in rhythm and rhyme

113.1 Rhythm

A Rhythm of English proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

2 Types of rhythm

3 Function of rhythm

B Rhythm of Vietnamese proverbs

1 Factors creating rhythm

1 Factors creating rhyme 1.1 ‘the repetition phenomena

Chapter ITT: Imptications towards better proverb translation

TT How to wanslaic English proverbs ilo Viclnamesc ones

successfully

TIL2 Victnamese equivalent can be found

TIL3 Vielnamnesc equivalent cannot be found

11.3.1 We ear add or omit words to create thyme ( rhyme in suscession,

thyme in separation, relative rhyme or perfect rhyme)

III.3.2 Creazing rhyme by repeating »

TIL3.3 The proverb can be transialed ilo a Vietruamese six-cight meter

11.3.4 Creating two equal, parallel clause

11.3.5 Making tone symmetrical

Malcolm Jones openly proposes a tautology involving an implied possibility of definition: “y shall take refuge in the tautology that a proverb is an expression we recognize as a proverbial”

2.2.2 A proverb is identical with its text

Some examples

«© “A proverb isa short sontence of wisdom” (quoted by Mieder 1989 p15)

© “A proverb is a standard statement of moral and colloquial imperatives in fixed metaphorical paradigmatic form, it deals with fundamental logical relationships” (Barley 1972 p.741)

« “A proverb is a general statement or judgement, explaining, classifying or assessing a silualion” (Harald Burger, quoted by W Micder 1877 p.2)

« “A traditional propositional statement consisting of at least one descriptive

© “Proverbs are popular fixed sentences expressing a nile of conduct or a wisdom in a vivid, short form” (Rohrich-Mieder 1977 p.2)

Tt has, however, been pointed out repeatedly that eg “two major

(Mieder 1996 p.597) The importance of the implied general meaning (general idea) was stressed by Matti Kuusi (Kuusi 1996) and Vilmos Voigt (Voigt 1970)

‘The implied scope and limitation of application has been mentioned before (Paczolay 1996 p.282)

2.2.3 More complex definitions

In addition to the definition of Whiting given previously, as examples some definitions are mentioned that include several, sometimes frequent, but not absolutely necessary characteristics, like poetic form, while important ones, like currency or the absence of a known author are missing Some examples: “A short pithy saying in common and recognized use a concise sentence often metaphorical or alliterative in form, which is held to express some truth ascertained by experience or observation familiar to all, an adage, a wise saw” (Whiting 1932)

« “A proverb is a popular set phrase having no author, known mostly in different languages, expressing in one sentence a principle, advice, a genuine

or assumed truth in a general, concise form, its basic idea being of general validity, or at least its user considers it as such” (O Nagy 1979 p.645)

“Where do proverbs come from?” is a question which is certainly still in

the forefront of debate today, yet, it remains comtroversial and no one can answer for sure ‘hus, it is no easy task to clearly point out the origin of proverbs L, therefore, propose accepting what many researchers in some most well- researched books agree

According to Vietnamese authors, there are two theories about the

occurrence of proverbs

«© The first theory: Proverbs were composed by poets

+ The second theory: Proverbs were created by unknown folk authors

We can see clearly that the mumber of proverbs oreated by folk authors outweighs the number of proverbs composed by poets if these two theories are true

According to English authors, there are three theories about the occurrence

© The third theory generally: Proverbs began that we stipulate the act of daily

life from our experience and proverbs are useful to each of culture and

social education

‘The truth is still not known, but the third theory seems the most appropriate

L2 Definitions of proverbs

2.1, Introduction:

The collection of proverbs dates back to millennia, to Sumerian cuneiform

tablets, and the theory of proverbs has also a long history Many papers have been published eg on the origin, definition, use, classification, structure, language, logic, meaning of proverbs etc In this paper some aspects of the definition of proverbs will be dealt with and some notes on the main types and content of proverbs will be presented

12.2 The definition of proverbs in the literature

In the corresponding papers many definitions can be found Professor

Mieder in one of his papers with admilled overslatement- puts that “We can almost state that there are more definition attempts than there are proverbs”

(Mieder 1989, p.13.)