“The difference in structure between idiom & proverb”

Sara Rahmani & Mina Mousavi

Idioms and proverbs are the linguistic jewels of every nation. These concise,
meaningful expressions are the product of the thoughts and experiences of past
generations, enigmatically encapsulating profound concepts. The use of idioms
and proverbs not only enriches discourse but also demonstrates an individual's
mastery of their language and culture.

Idioms as expressions that have a meaning that is not the sum of the meanings of
their individual words (Jackendoff, 1997). Idioms are typically used figuratively to
convey complex ideas in simpler terms.

A proverb is a short, wise saying that alludes to a moral tale or a pointed remark,
often derived from life experiences and containing advice or admonition. Proverb
is the wit of one, and the wisdom of many (Russell, 1850).

While idioms and proverbs share some similarities, they have distinct structures
and are employed in different contexts(Ramiz, 2024).Due to the similarities
between idioms and proverbs, they are sometimes mistakenly used
interchangeably in conversation, leading to ambiguity and misunderstandings.
Therefore, to use them correctly in appropriate situations, it is essential to
understand the distinctions between idioms and proverbs, enabling a deeper
understanding and optimal utilization. A comprehensive knowledge of idioms and
proverbs, along with an analysis of their structural differences, can assist
individuals in using each appropriately in the right context.

In this research, structure is the dependent variable and types of idioms and
proverbs are the independent variables. Some studies have examined in the field
of idioms and proverbs.
In regard to idiom Tim Ifill (2002) laid the groundwork for understanding the
internal structure of idioms. He uses linguistic analysis and argued that idioms,
while figurative, maintain a connection to underlying literal meanings. In addition
M. Rajendra Pandian (2012) with a comparative analysis of idioms and proverbs
compared idioms and proverbs, highlighting their distinct philosophical attitudes.
Also Adam Makkai (2013) with linguistic analysis delved deeper into the definition
and classification of idioms, emphasizing their unique characteristics and
challenges in interpretation. He attempts to provide rigorous definitions for
idioms because of the possibility of misunderstanding. Furthermore Neal R.
Norrick (2014) provided a comprehensive overview of proverb studies,
emphasizing their cultural significance and linguistic features with literary analysis
of proverbs and linguistic theory. He Identifies key characteristics of proverbs,
such as their formulaic nature, figurative language, and use in complete
utterances. Moreover Cristina Cacciari and Patrizia Tabossi (2014) explored the
cognitive processes involved in idiom comprehension, highlighting the role of
holistic processing. Marcas Mac Coinnigh (2015) focused on the structural
features of proverbs, identifying devices such as parallelism, alliteration, and
metaphor that contribute to their distinctive style. They obtained results using
text analysis. Similarly Richard Honeck, Robert R Hoffman(2018) with the aim of
investigating the cognitive processes involved in understanding and interpreting
proverbs, investigated the cognitive processes involved in understanding
proverbs, highlighting their metaphorical and symbolic nature. More recently,
Damien Villers (2022) with linguistic analysis explored the mechanisms of
proverbialization, identifying factors such as memorability and cultural resonance.
Also Mukhammadieva Shakhzoda Farkhodovna (2023) characterized the structure
of proverbs and phraseological units in English, emphasizing their stability,
reproducibility, and figurative nature. Research on the syntax of idioms (2024) has
shown that while many idioms are fixed, some can be more flexible. Additionally,
research on idiom processing has revealed that idioms are often processed
holistically, as single units.
Previous research has shown a lack of focus on the structural distinctions
between proverbs and idioms. As a result, many people cannot distinguish the
difference between an idiom and a proverb, which leads to frequent errors. This
research aims to address this gap by examining the structural differences
between proverbs and idioms. The tools that we took help from and helped us
understand this category include texts and dictionaries containing idioms and
proverbs. We also address their differences with the help of specific grammar
about idioms and proverbs and examine their structure in this research using this
tool.

Understanding the structure of idioms and proverbs is very important. By

understanding the structure of idioms and proverbs, misunderstandings are
reduced and it promotes mutual understanding in conversations. Recognizing the
fixed structure of idioms, such as "spill the beans," aids in accurate interpretation.

Similarly, identifying the typical structure of proverbs, often short and concise
with a rhythmic or rhyming element, helps in grasping their underlying wisdom.
This knowledge enhances communication by enabling the fluent and culturally
appropriate use of these figures of speech. Furthermore, analyzing the structures
of idioms and proverbs provides valuable insights into the cultural values and
experiences reflected within them. This deepens cultural awareness and aids
language learners in grasping the complexities of grammar and syntax. Finally,
understanding these structures enhances literary appreciation by allowing for a
deeper understanding of literary devices, symbolism, and the author's intended
meaning. In essence, focusing on the structural differences between idioms and
proverbs fosters a richer understanding of language, improves communication
skills, and cultivates a greater appreciation for the diverse expressions of human
experience.
Relatedly, the present study answers the following questions:

1.What are the key structural features of idioms?

2.What are the key structural features of proverbs?

3.Are there any overlaps in the structures of idioms and proverbs?

4.Can an idiom be modified by changing its word order or adding words?

5.Are proverbs generally fixed expressions that cannot be altered?

Ramiz, M. (2024),Idiom vs proverb: definitions, examples, and key differences.

24(4), p.2, https://www.grammarpalette.com/idiom-vs-proverb-definitions-
differences/

Tim Ifill, T. (2002). Seeking the nature of Idioms: A study in idiomatic structure.
Haverford College, pp. 1-30.
https://scholarship.tricolib.brynmawr.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/f0f6f8e3-
e21e-425f-b3c1-f4999c7c1253/content

Pandian, M. R. (2012). Idioms and proverbs: A philosophical standoff. The

Journal for English Language and Literary Studies,2(2) pp. 43-49.
https://brbs.tjells.com/index.php/tjells/article/view/85

Makkai, A. (2013). Idioms in standard American English. In Makkai, A, Idiom

structure in English (1st ed. ,pp. 190-340). Walter de Gruyter
https://doi.org/10.1515/9783110812671

Norrick, N. R. (2014). Subject area, terminology, proverb definitions, proverb

features. In Hrisztova-Gotthardt, H., & Varga, M. A., Introduction to paremiology:
A comprehensive guide to proverb studies (1st ed.,pp. 7-27). De Gruyter Open.
https://doi.org10.2478/9783110410167
 Cacciari, C., & Tabossi, P. (2014). Idioms: Processing, Structure, and
interpretation. (1st ed.).Routledge. https://doi.org/10.4324/9781315807133

Norrick, N. R. (2015). Structural aspects of proverbs. In Norrick, N. R., Proverbs in

context: culture, language, and cognition(1st ed., pp.112-132)
https://www.degruyter.com/document/doi/10.2478/9783110410167.5/pdf?licen
seType=free

Honeck, R. P., & Hoffman, R. R. (2018). Proverbs, meaning, and group structure.
In Honeck, R. P. & Hoffman, R. R., Cognition and Figurative Language(1st ed.,
pp.127-162).Taylor & Francis Group. https://doi.org/10.4324/9780429432866

Villers, D. (2022). What makes a good proverb? On the birth and propagation of
proverbs. Lexis, 24(3), pp.5-12. https://journals.openedition.org/lexis/6383

Mukhammadieva, S. F. (2023). The structure of proverbs and phraseological

units in English. IJTIMOIY FANLARDA INNOVASIYA ONLAYN ILMIY JURNALI, 3(6),
pp. 83-87. https://sciencebox.uz/index.php/jis/article/view/7590