Spanish Language Metaphors

Linguistic Impact

In the field of Modern Languages and Linguistics, words are of great importance. A language’s phonology (study of how sounds are organized and used), morphology (study of the form and structure of words), syntax (study of the rules that govern sentence structure), semantics (study of meaning of words, sentences, and expressions), pragmatics (study of aspects of meaning and language use and context), and phonetics (study of human speech sounds) all play an important part in everyday life. These have a major impact in understanding the intent of what is spoken or heard. Due to the importance of communication, literary elements such as metaphors (which are defined as a figure of speech in which a word or phrase literally denoting one kind of object or idea that is used in place of another to suggest a likeness between them), takes on greater cultural significance. This is especially true of the Spanish language.

Cultural Influences

In American culture the use of everyday metaphors such as the “neck of the woods”, meaning a region or neighborhood (Answers.com) can be difficult to understand by those learning English as a Second language. Literal translations can become very confusing. While coming to the realization that some sayings such as “rolling in dough” do not literally mean to roll about in pastry, it might take awhile for some to equate this with its true meaning - to have an overabundance or surplus of money. American culture is comprised of a melding of influences from diverse cultures, many of which are from Spanish origins. As such, some metaphors, like “light of my life” which means a person who is regarded very fondly (WordReference.com) have similar meanings in both English ...

... middle of paper ...

...aphors may be difficult to discern, they are and will continue to be of great importance in the Modern Languages and Linguistics field. Continued study and interpretation of metaphors and the language itself are therefore needed to bring about a better understanding of the peoples being added to the great American “melting pot.”

Works Cited:

"DICCIONARIO DE DOMINICANISMOS." El Rincon Inquieto de Jallite. 1986. 18 July 2005 .

Galván III, Anthony. "Cuentos y Dichos." Galvan's CyberDojo. 2003. 18 July 2005 .

Larouse Gran Diccionario. 2nd ed. 2004.

Suro, Roberto. "The Rise Of The Second Generation - Changing Patterns In Hispanic Population Growth." Pew Hispanic Center (2003). 18 July 2005 .