Comparing the Depiction of Love in English and Indonesian Proverbs: An Analysis Using Cognitive Semantics and the Contrastive Method

Abstract

This study delves into the intricate realm of human emotions, specifically exploring the concept of love as depicted in proverbs from two culturally distinct languages: English and Indonesian. This study utilized a cognitive semantics analysis and the contrastive method to unravel the underlying conceptualizations of love in these linguistic expressions. Proverbs served as windows into a society's collective wisdom and cultural values, often reflecting fundamental human experiences. By analyzing an extensive corpus of English and Indonesian proverbs related to love, we aimed to investigate the cognitive structures that underpin these linguistic expressions. Through this exploration, we also aimed to bridge linguistic and cultural gaps, shedding light on how love is conceptualized differently and similarly across these languages. Applying a cognitive semantics analysis, we dissected the metaphorical expressions and conceptual metaphors that govern love-related proverbs in both languages. Scrutinizing these linguistic metaphors uncovered the nuances of love as perceived by English and Indonesian speakers. The contrastive method allowed us to identify patterns of similarity and divergence in the cognitive love models, offering a deeper understanding of cross-cultural variations. Admittedly, the findings show that (1) both English and Indonesian proverbs utilize a diverse range of metaphorical expressions to convey the complex concept of love; In English proverbs, love is often metaphorically associated with the warmth of a fire, the journey of life, and the destination of that journey and Indonesian proverbs lean heavily on metaphors that are related to nature and natural elements, (2) the metaphorical expressions and source domains used to describe love in English and Indonesian proverbs signify culture's significant role in shaping the conceptualization of love in language, and (3) English proverbs focus more on love's transient and fleeting elements. In contrast, Indonesian proverbs highlight the more profound nature of love that extends beyond immediate gratification. By understanding how love is conceptualized in different languages, we can enrich our linguistic knowledge and gain valuable insights into how humans experience and express this universal emotion. Our study strives to foster cross-cultural appreciation and enhance intercultural communication by unraveling the intricate tapestry of love as depicted in English and Indonesian proverbs.