Buzz
Many struggle to discern the disparities between literal and figurative meanings. Hence, this article delves into the concepts of figurative and literal meanings, elucidating their differences.
1. What defines the meaning of a word?
The meaning of a word encompasses a conglomerate of attributes, functions, concepts, and relationships it signifies.
The meaning of a word is shaped by various factors, including external elements beyond language such as objects, phenomena, and thoughts. The linguistic component therein is the structure of language.
2. How to elucidate the meaning of a word?
The meaning of a word is highly diverse and extensive:
- Providing related concepts, defining the expression conveyed by the word.
Example: Courage: facing difficulties and challenges without faltering, stepping back. Always in a state of preparedness to confront and overcome all.
- Providing synonyms and antonyms for the words needing explanation to enable others to understand and grasp easily.
Example: Honesty: a person with a truthful, straightforward personality in all matters.
3. What is metaphorical meaning? What about literal meaning?
Original meaning is understood as the initial or the meaning that appears first, upon which we can construct other meanings.
Examples:
+ The child is in the stage of learning to stand on their own.
+ I have very big and beautiful eyes.
Connotative meaning is understood as meanings formed based on the original meaning; therefore, they often have specific reasons and can be recognized through the original meaning of the word.
Examples:
+ Vietnam is striving to rise to establish a position in the international market.
+ The pineapple has many eyes.
The sharp parts of tools such as knives, needles, swords,...
* When ripe:
Crops like rice, flowers, fruits... have reached the stage for harvesting.
Grains, food have been processed and cooked through fire or electricity: cooked rice, cooked vegetables...
In this article, we have addressed the meaning of figurative language, its original meaning, and the differences. Wishing you a great day ahead!
