Danang Satria Nugraha

Sanata Dharma University, DI Yogyakarta, Indonesia, 55002

DOI : https://doi.org/10.47191/ijsshr/v6-i9-02

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ABSTRACT

This study delves into the fascinating topic of love as portrayed in English proverbs. Using a combination of Cognitive Semantics Analysis and Qualitative Methods, the study aims to unveil the various aspects of affection, companionship, and attachment within the lingual-cultural context of these idiomatic expressions. Through careful analysis of the cognitive structures and linguistic subtleties that underlie them, this research significantly contributes to our understanding of how traditional sayings conceptualize and convey love. The findings reveal the intricate connection between language, culture, and human emotions, providing a richer and more nuanced understanding of this timeless sentiment, which is as precious as “the apple of our eye.” Specifically, in this study, a multitude of captivating discoveries have been made regarding how love is represented in proverbial expressions: (1) specific emotions that are commonly associated with love, such as “journey,” “flame,” and “delicate touch,” were found to be particularly emphasized; (2) evocative connotations like “blood affinity,” “magical or totality,” and “logical consequence of the act of loving” were frequently utilized in the context of love; and (3) patterns about the relationship between language structures and human emotions were identified in the analyzed proverbs. Future study examining proverbs in diverse languages can greatly enhance our understanding of this topic and enable us to compare findings across languages.

KEYWORDS:

English Proverbs, Love, Cognitive Semantics Analysis, Linguistic Nuances, Idiomatic Expressions

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Volume 06 Issue 09 September 2023