DETERMINATION PROVERBS IN ENGLISH AND VIETNAMESE: A CROSS-CULTURAL CONTRASTIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

For the purpose of effective communication, every learner of a foreign language needs knowledge of the language, skills and culture. Phraseological units, particularly proverbs in this study, are the root of almost all cultures as well as a critical part of language acquisition. This research, based on cross-cultural features and semantic analysis, aims to point out the similarities and differences of English and Vietnamese determination proverbs. This research can, therefore, explore the cross-cultural gaps between the two languages in terms of proverbs’ referents. Moreover, teachers can promote the learning spirit of students in their exploration of the beauty of proverbs in both languages. From this study, students can find out the relationship between the two languages and cultures, as well as gain more background knowledge and experience. Coursebook designers can also use this research as a source of reference to localize English coursebooks in Vietnam.