The Role of Animal Metaphors in SLT: A Comparative Study Based on the Idioms of Chinese and Brazilian Portuguese
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.71222/cfvr8582Keywords:
animal metaphors, idioms, second language teaching, chinese, portuguese, comparative linguisticsAbstract
Teaching metaphorical language, especially idioms, is widely recognized as one of the most challenging areas in second language teaching. This complexity arises because it poses a significant cultural challenge, as well as a pedagogical one, requiring learners to navigate unfamiliar cognitive frameworks. Regarding idioms related to animals, these expressions vary greatly in meaning and application due to the fundamentally different natural environments, historical developments, and cultural backgrounds of Brazil and China. Consequently, the expressions and metaphorical meanings of animals such as dogs, cats, chickens, cows, and horses in idioms will serve as the core focus of our study. By systematically comparing animal-based idioms in Brazilian Portuguese and Chinese, we will be able to determine the underlying cultural meanings of these fixed expressions, thereby revealing the distinct worldviews embedded within each language. Furthermore, this comparative analysis aims to provide practical, evidence-based suggestions for both teaching and learning methodologies in cross-cultural educational contexts. Using the rich cultural heritage of idioms as an active teaching aid, combined with engaging pedagogical tools such as visual illustrations, contextualized stories, and dynamic interactive exercises, will significantly help students understand and internalize these animal idioms that deeply reflect cultural identity. Ultimately, this research contributes to the broader field of applied linguistics by demonstrating how targeted metaphorical instruction can enhance intercultural communicative competence and facilitate more effective second language acquisition.References
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