Lexical Expressions of Motion in Physical Environments a Cognitive Linguistics Perspective

Abstract

This study aims to delve into the interaction between motion verbs, manners, and paths in the Vietnamese language to look at the lexicalization of motion occurrences. Utilizing Talmy's lexicalization patterns for cognitive linguistics, the study seeks to understand how Vietnamese encodes and conceptualizes motion events in a variety of physical contexts, such as the air, water, and land. A mixed-methods approach is used in this work, integrating qualitative analysis of annotated textual data with quantitative frequency analysis. Vietnamese has a rich system of motion verbs that may be paired with manner and path expressions to produce complex and subtle descriptions of movement, according to the research. The language displays intricate differences when describing the direction, velocity, and kind of vehicle of motion, in addition to various linear, curved, vertical, circular, and multidirectional routes. The complex interplay between language, cognition, and the embodied experience of motion is highlighted by this linguistic variety, which is a reflection of Vietnamese speakers' astute observation and interpretation of the physical world. The work adds to our knowledge of how language organizes and expresses the basic idea of motion and provides insights into the cognitive and cultural bases of language expression.