The representation of the concept “TIME” in Russian, English, and Ingush paremias: A comparative analysis

Abstract

The structural and semantic representation of the concept “TIME” in paremiological units (PU) across Russian, English, and Ingush linguistic cultures was examined. The novelty of the study lies in that it offers a comprehensive comparative analysis of temporal PUs in the typologically distinct languages: nominative-accusative (Russian and English) and ergative (Ingush). Using both general methods (selection, analysis, synthesis, systematization, classification, and generalization) and specific linguistic approaches (functional-semantic, comparative, componential, and interpretative), temporal PUs from lexicographic, scholarly, and theological sources were investigated. Particular attention was paid to prognostic (weatherrelated) folk sayings, which were classified into the following subtypes: 1) inferred from observations of atmospheric phenomena; 2) based on the behavior and condition of plants and animals; 3) rooted in sacred and traditional beliefs about nature; 4) associated with celestial bodies. The results of the comparison revealed both universal and culture-specific patterns in the linguistic expression of the studied PUs with temporal semantics, reflecting the typological similarities/differences and the presence of shared/culturally grounded attitudes among the speakers of Russian, English, and Ingush.