A Cognitive Linguistic Analysis of Imagery in Chinese Idioms (成语) Containing 春, 夏, 秋, 冬

Abstract

Background and Aims: Chinese idioms (成语) are a vital component of the language, reflecting profound wisdom and a long-standing culture. Predominantly four-character phrases, they possess fixed structures and deep underlying meanings, often referencing classical literature, historical events, or folklore. Understanding these idioms requires interpretation beyond literal translation, as their fixed forms make direct translation difficult and altering their structure compromises their essence. Within Chinese culture, which emphasizes the harmony between humans and nature (天人合一), the four seasons play a significant role in shaping these idioms.

This research aims to study Chinese idioms that begin with the characters for the four seasons: "春" (spring), "夏" (summer), "秋" (autumn), and "冬" (winter). We analyze how these seasons serve as Source Domains in metaphorical expressions and how their associated Target Domains can be categorized into specific semantic fields. This analysis provides deeper insights into the thought processes and cultural values embedded within the Chinese language.

Methodology: This qualitative study employs content analysis to examine Chinese idioms beginning with "春", "夏" ,"秋" and "冬" The idioms were selected from Zhonghua Chengyu Da Cidian (中华成语大词典, 2012) and Chengyu Da Cidian (成语大词典, 2012). The study analyzes both their literal and figurative meanings, applying Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT) in conjunction with Semantic Field Theory to classify the primary imagery types. Subsequently, the research summarizes and compares the imageries found in each season to reveal the cultural concepts and values deeply rooted in Chinese society through idiomatic language.

Results: The study identified a total of 100 Chinese idioms meeting the criteria, starting with "春", "夏" ,"秋" and "冬"  from the specified dictionaries. The imagery of seasons in these idioms can be categorized by season with the following proportions:

"春" (Spring) - 50 idioms Happiness, Success, and Prosperity: 15 idioms (30.00%) Change, Growth, and Benefit: 6 idioms (12.00%) Relationships, Memory, and Time: 4 idioms (8.00%) Fragility, Uncertainty, or Disappointment: 13 idioms (26.00%) Specific Characteristics or Aesthetics: 12 idioms (24.00%)

 "夏"  (Summer) - 14 idioms Intense Heat and Awe-Inspiring Conditions: 4 idioms (28.57%) ,Uselessness or Inappropriateness: 3 idioms (21.43%), Limitations of Knowledge and Experience: 2 idioms (14.29%), Benefit, Growth, and Fulfillment: 2 idioms (14.29%),

Rapidity, Instability, and Natural Aesthetics: 3 idioms (21.43%)

"秋" (Autumn) - 28 idioms Clarity, Serenity, and Tranquility: 6 idioms (21.43%),

Witheredness, Departure, and Abandonment: 5 idioms (17.86%), Detail, Minuteness, and Clarity: 3 idioms (10.71%), Harvest, Results, and Management: 3 idioms (10.71%), Beauty, Aesthetics, and Emotions: 9 idioms (32.14%), Neglect or Overlooking: 1 idiom (3.57%), Comparison or Other Specific Characteristics: 1 idiom (3.57%)

"冬"  (Winter) - 8 idioms Warmth, Loveliness, and Desirable Qualities: 3 idioms (37.50%), Uselessness or Inappropriateness: 2 idioms (25.00%), Ignorance, Difficulty, and Specific Characteristics: 3 idioms (37.50%)