Thematic Metaphors in Idiomatic Expressions Illustrated with Examples from English, German, Spanish, Portuguese and Romanian
Thematic Metaphors in Idiomatic Expressions Illustrated with Examples from English, German, Spanish, Portuguese and Romanian

Summary/Abstract: Language is shaped by life experiences and we see how occupations, leisure activities and common practices are reflected in language, due to their significance in the evolution of mankind and in the forming of communities. Idiomatic expressions contain aspects of reality which are transformed into metaphors that make figurative references, adding depth and enriching the discourse, and they stand as testimonies and mirrors of the past. Idioms tell stories of history and culture, encompassing aspects that are specific or relatable to people in general and notions that define the human being. References to various activities become imprinted onto language in the form of metaphors that can be classified into different themes, based on the realities that they stem from: hunting, sailing, fighting practices, spirituality in its many forms, arts, magic, religiousness, trades and handicrafts, sports, games and even technology. These themes or conceptual domains around which metaphors and idioms are centered are universal and can be found in many different languages; this is proven through examples from two Germanic languages – English and German, and three Romance languages – Spanish, Portuguese and Romanian. Along with many similarities, contrast can be found as well, and observing the different ways in which certain concepts are illustrated in different languages gives us a taste of linguistic and cultural uniqueness.

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