Phytonym Metaphors: A Comparative Analysis in English and Uzbek

Solijanov Sobirjon, Pazilova Nasibaxon Muhammadqasimovna,

Kurbanov Muzaffar Abdumutalibovich and Solijonov Boburjon

Andijan State Foreign Languages Institute, Andijan, Uzbekistan

Keywords: Language, Vocabulary, Metaphor, Phytonyms, Idiomatic Expression.

Abstract: This article examines the challenges posed by phytonyms in global linguistics, focusing on the use of plant

names in English and Uzbek languages to highlight national and spiritual characteristics through metaphorical

compositions. It explores the influence of idiomatic metaphors involving plant names on spirituality and

culture, delineating their core principles. Rather than viewing metaphors related to plant names as linguistic

impurities or norm violations, they are regarded as enriching linguistic boundaries and enhancing the

language's theoretical and practical potential. This study emphasizes the positive contribution of such

metaphors to language dynamics, suggesting that they expand vocabulary and offer diverse expressive

avenues within both English and Uzbek linguistic frameworks.

1 INTRODUCTION

In accordance with modern science's

anthropocentrism, linguistic research has focused

heavily on human consciousness and cognition.

Attention is particularly directed towards

understanding the linguistic representation of the

world, encapsulating human ideas about reality.

Phytonymic vocabulary, reflecting human interaction

with the plant world, holds significance in this

exploration, embodying cultural, practical, and

mythological aspects of human-nature relations.

The term "phytonym" emerged in the 1970s,

signifying the proper name for individual plants.

Despite active usage, its interpretation remains

varied. Phytonymic vocabulary, encompassing plant

names, represents a rich semantic community,

reflecting diverse cultural and historical perspectives.

Research in this domain, spanning etymology,

cultural studies, and linguistics, sheds light on the

intricate connections between language, culture, and

environment (Pazilova et al 2023, Bahramova 2015).

Metaphors related to plant names pose complex

phenomena, drawing attention from linguists and

literary scholars alike. They serve as potent tools for

meaning transfer, enhancing lexical richness and

stylistic depth. The exploration of polysemantic

meanings contributes significantly to lexical

methodology, uncovering nuanced layers of linguistic

expression. In literature, such metaphorical usage

fosters humour, puns, and unexpected connotations,

enriching the textual experience with vivid imagery

and depth of meaning(O’rinboyeva 2022, Solijonov

2022).

The impact of metaphors on spirituality in English

and Uzbek and the issue of metaphor and culture have

attracted the attention of many linguists, including

Lakoff, George, Zoltan Kovecses, S. Laurence, E.

Margolis, S. Lewis, J. Masharipov, N. D.

Arutyunova, N. D. Bessorabova, A. I. Yefimov, A.

The scientific researches of P. Chudinov, V. K.

Kharchenko and others serve as the basis for the

topic. Linguists have also conducted research on the

national-spiritual features of plant name metaphors in

English and Uzbek and their similarities and

differences. M. McCarthy, B. Mowat, P. Werstine, A.

Musayev, G. Nurullayeva, G. K. Kobuljonova, B.

Mengliyev have also special contribution to

investigate the metaphor. The issue of

conceptualizing metaphors specific to plant names

paid attention to main problems of the topic. They

were implemented in the work of S. Coulson, G.

Fauconnier, M. Turner, J. Grady.

2 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

In the article, we employed comparative,

linguocultural, and conceptual methods to investigate

metaphors linked to plant names and the

768

Sobirjon, S., Muhammadqasimovna, P., Abdumutalibovich, K. and Boburjon, S.

Phytonym Metaphors: A Comparative Analysis in English and Uzbek.

DOI: 10.5220/0012916500003882

Paper published under CC license (CC BY-NC-ND 4.0)

In Proceedings of the 2nd Pamir Transboundary Conference for Sustainable Societies (PAMIR-2 2023), pages 768-771

ISBN: 978-989-758-723-8

characteristics of phytonyms in both English and

Uzbek languages. This approach enabled a thorough

examination of the linguistic and cultural nuances

surrounding the naming conventions of plants in these

two distinct linguistic contexts.

Our research explores the intricate relationship

between language and culture, shedding light on how

metaphors are embedded within plant nomenclature.

By juxtaposing English and Uzbek phytonyms, we

aimed to uncover similarities and differences in the

conceptual frameworks underlying these linguistic

expressions, offering valuable insights into the

cultural perceptions and representations of plants in

each language.

3 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

Scientific works on plant study vary not only in their

focus on phytonymic vocabulary but also in their

geographical scope. For instance, N. I. Konovalova

analyzes plant nomination in Central Ural dialects,

emphasizing cultural connotations in phytonymic

units. Similarly, N. Sh. Yagumova interprets English

and Adyghe phytonyms culturally, while Yu. N. Isaev

compares phytonyms across Altai, Finno-Ugric,

Indo-European, and Caucasian languages. This

comparative approach highlights linguistic diversity,

aiding in the understanding of national worldviews.

Despite extensive research, phytonymy, especially in

English, remains insufficiently described. V.B.

Kolosova notes a disparity in herbaceous plant

analysis between languages due to differing word

formation processes. Lexemes, the basic units of

language, convey knowledge and emotions.

Metaphors, fundamental in language, are categorized

by denotative similarity by scholars like M.

Mirtojiyev. Linguistic metaphors differ from

expressive ones, with simple metaphor,

personification, and synaesthesia being common

types. Understanding linguistic metaphors related to

plant names in English and Uzbek languages requires

clarifying their nature. Metaphors serve various

functions and are crucial for expressing new concepts

using existing linguistic units.

On one hand, it's important to consider how much

a metaphor aids the poet in expressing their thoughts

and emotions in language. On the other hand, it's

crucial to acknowledge how much it allows the poet

to evoke feelings within the reader. Metaphors, being

products of creative activity, necessitate an

understanding of both the creator and the audience,

akin to works of art or imagery. Thus, to comprehend

the role and significance of metaphor in poetry, one

must examine its functions within poetic texts. A

poetic metaphor, much like a linguistic metaphor,

aims not to simply name but to express. It's a textual

composition where expression isn't achieved through

words alone, but through the imagery they create.

Social and cultural evolution often brings about

shifts in word meanings, leading to polysemous or

figurative interpretations. Metaphor, a prevalent tool

for creating figurative meaning, assigns secondary

names to specific things, signs, or actions.

Originating from the Greek word meaning "to

transfer," metaphor has intrigued scholars since

ancient times, resulting in various empirical and

theoretical viewpoints. Renowned linguist R.

Kongurov likened a metaphor to a hidden simile,

where the compared object is omitted but clearly

implied within the text.

The efficacy of metaphors in art relies on the

writer's artistic acumen and skill. Language offers

numerous metaphorical forms, including

phytomorphic, zoomorphic, anthropomorphic,

cosmomorphic, and abiomorphic metaphors.

Phytomorphic metaphors, specifically, highlight the

metaphorical use of plant names and their attributes.

While phytonyms pertain solely to name transfers

based on plant names, phytomorphic metaphors

encompass a broader range of plant-related

properties, parts, or products.

Observations in folk art reveal abundant

metaphorical interpretations of plant names,

illustrating various meanings. For instance, an apple's

phytonym symbolizes pregnancy, childhood,

adulthood, love, or even a lover's cheek, while a

peach represents false love and fertility. The grape

signifies large families, cherries denote beauty and

delicacy, and pomegranates hold special significance

in folklore, symbolizing youth, family, and life

stages. Additionally, Goumi berry phytonyms often

convey negative or sarcastic connotations prevalent

in folk songs.

Let's analyze several conceptual metaphors based

on “A tree grows in Brooklyn”. "Trees are human".

This knowledge is also common among different

languages, so also in our languages. In prehistoric

times, trees were believed to be alive and sentient.

The English conceptual metaphor "trees are people"

may correspond to the Uzbek language, but not all

metaphorical expressions can have the same meaning

in the Uzbek language. For example, examples such

as green in clothes, tree know, it liked poor people

and a kind tree are similar to the Uzbek versions, but

bearded with moss cannot have a suitable equivalent,

the literal translation is shaved from the grass, this

metaphorical expression has no equivalent in Uzbek.

Phytonym Metaphors: A Comparative Analysis in English and Uzbek

769

Plants and trees are often used in metaphors to explain

concepts related to growth and origin stories (your

'roots'). In such cases, the expressions have become

simple idioms.

1. I've grown as a person: When we discuss

personal growth, we are referring to the

evolution of our cognitive abilities and

mental processes. A person who "grows as a

person" could learn new lessons, get over

personal obstacles, or learn to forgive and

move on from past hurts. There is no actual

physical growth, hence this idea of growth is

symbolic.

2. He is in my family tree: Ancestors are listed

on a family tree in an arrangement which

illustrates the bond between parents and

offspring. When this hierarchical list is

printed out, it resembles a tree. But we use

the phrase metaphorically because it looks

like a tree. However, we can also use the

term "family tree" in our language to just

refer to individuals from them.

3. Returning to your roots: The phrase "going

back to your roots" refers to the idea of the

"family tree" mentioned above or the

straightforward notion that a tree's roots are

the source of life. Once more, seeing the

homes of our ancestors allows us to say that

we are returning to our roots.

4. Deeply rooted: When anything is said to be

deeply rooted, it means that it is genuinely

embedded in another item. This metaphor is

based on the notion that plants and trees

have deep roots that make them difficult to

pull out of the earth.

5. Seed(s): We frequently refer to "seeds"

when discussing the nascent stages of an

idea or emotion. It just denotes the start of

anything.

6. Root(s): This word is used to describe the

origin of something and can also often occur

as a verb in the passive voice (to be rooted).

From a national-spiritual point of view, roots

represent a strong connection with

something.

In addition, the word "palak" has different

meanings in Uzbek language.

Metaphors, including phytomorphic ones, play a

vital role in creating figurative meaning. They are

observed in both traditional and private contexts in

Uzbek linguistic and poetic studies. This research

aims to explore the linguopoetics of plant-related

metaphors in English and Uzbek poetry. English

poems often depict human images through flower,

tree, and plant names, as seen in examples like "Lily

of the West" and "The Yellow Rose of Texas" by

Amelia White. These metaphors, employing words

like "lily" and "rose," evoke sentiments of love and

delicacy deeply ingrained in American culture. For

instance, "Lily of the West" portrays a sense of

betrayal in love, while "The Yellow Rose of Texas"

expresses enduring affection despite infidelity.

Flowers, symbolizing delicacy and beauty, also

denote vulnerability; lilies represent delicateness,

while roses signify beauty and elusiveness.

In various American poetic legends, positive,

sentimental female images are directly created

through such metaphors, like in "Man Without a

Woman" and "Billy Boy." Conversely, negative

female images are depicted in works such as "On Beat

of Ancient Smoky," where an unscrupulous girl is

portrayed. Furthermore, the poem "The Farmer's

Curst Spouse" describes a suffering wife. Through

these examples, it's evident that flower-related

metaphors accentuate feminine traits and emotions.

In summary, metaphors, particularly those related

to plants, serve as powerful tools in conveying

complex emotions and character traits in poetry. They

enrich the linguistic and poetic landscape, creating

vivid imagery and emotional resonance within the

reader or listener. Through the analysis of these

metaphors in both English and Uzbek poetry, this

research seeks to deepen our understanding of their

cultural and linguistic significance.

In Uzbek folklore, phytomorphic metaphors like

saksovul (hot taffeta of a lover), yulgun (lonely

lover), arpa (beautiful girl), shivit (unfaithful young

man), and archa are utilized, reflecting the world of

plants in linguistic expressions. Alisher Navoi's

linguopoetics explore phytonyms, with flowers and

buds metaphorically representing beloveds. Cypress

symbolizes the beloved in Navoi's poetry, resonating

with Sufi ideals of absolute beauty. Shavkat Rahman

and Muhammad Yusuf also employ plant metaphors

skillfully, creating vivid imagery. Rahman's poem

"Freedom Song" depicts trees barefoot in winter,

symbolizing resilience against adversity. Yusuf's

works feature phytonyms like dandelion, basil, mint,

tulip, wheat, cotton, willow, grass, and maple,

portraying themes of love and nature. Both poets

weave plant names into their verses to evoke

emotions and imagery. Linguistic analyses of plant

name metaphors exist in English and Uzbek

languages, explored in scholarly works like A.

Appleby's "Linguopoetics of Phytonyms" and M.

Black's "Interpretation of Lexicographic Features of

Phytonyms". Uzbek linguists like Sh.

Shoabdurakhmanov, J. Lapasov, Marufjon

PAMIR-2 2023 - The Second Pamir Transboundary Conference for Sustainable Societies- | PAMIR

770

Yoldoshev, and H. Doniyorov also contribute to this

field. Overall, the use of plant metaphors enriches

poetic expressions, offering deeper insights into

human emotions and the natural world.

Encouragingly, in Uzbek linguistics, significant

attention has been devoted to describing the linguistic

abilities of specific creators and the idiosyncrasies of

writers. For example, L. Abdullayeva examined the

lexical stylistics of Uzbek fiction language, while E.

Qilichev discussed lexical tools in artistic image, and

B. Umurkulov explored poetic speech lexicon.

Linguistic tools and poetic individuality in Uzbek

poetry, like Umirova Svetlana Ma'murjonovnana's,

have also been studied. Linguopoetics, studying

language in creative works, has been a focus in both

English and Uzbek linguistics.

Regarding phytonyms in Uzbek, they're classified

into individual choice and scientific selection.

Examples include wheat varieties like Qizilbug'doy,

Tuyatish, grape varieties like Soyaki, Sohibi, Parkent,

and apricot varieties like Kursodik, Obinovvot.

Scientifically named plants, governed by the Law of

Selection Achievements, follow a hierarchical

structure. Botanical studies classify phytonyms into

semantic groups, including tree names, cereal

varieties, gourds, and flowers. Grape varieties such as

Jurauzum, Tarnov, and others illustrate this.

Classification units like family, variation, and species

are used.

In vegetable crop names, phytonyms are divided

based on botanical families. Cabbage varieties

include "Navruz" and "Tashkent," turnips include

"Muyassar" and "Namangan," and radishes include

"Andijan – 9" and "Marghilan." Carrots, parsley,

coriander, dill, beets, gourds, tomatoes, eggplants,

and peppers are also classified. Some linguists argue

that while much research has been done on flora and

botany, the language aspect, particularly phytonyms

and ethnonyms, remains underexplored in

onomastics.

4 CONCLUSION

Traditional (general) phytomorphic metaphors are

actively used in language and speech from time to

time. Traditional (general) phytomorphic metaphors

are actively used in language and speech from the

earliest times to the present day, and its content is one

of the types of migration known to the majority of

people. The individual metaphors used in the artistic

text are directly related to the creator's mental-

spiritual world, worldview, culture, and artistic-

aesthetic goal, so they have the characteristic of

coloring, leveling, and pictorial representation of

reality, and have a connotative meaning.

Plant names directly reflect people's belonging to

a geographical area, long historical culture, lifestyle,

spiritual and spiritual world, mythological and

religious views. It can be observed that most of the

works of Uzbek folklore are related to plants and their

names.

In these works, the names of plants are used in a

figurative sense, and human characteristics are often

transferred to the image of a plant. Observations have

shown that in the examples of folk art, plants include

maple, poplar, willow, gorse, flowers, roses,

rhododendron, basil, and fruits, such as

pomegranates, figs, quinces, grapes, apricots that the

name is heavily metaphrased. Especially the flowers,

phytonyms such as Mehrigiyo, Ra’no form a separate

system as a poetic symbol.

REFERENCES

Sayfullaeva, R., Mengliev, B., Boqieva, G., Qurbonova,

M., Yunusova, Z., & Abuzalova, M. (2009). Hozirgi

o'zbek adabiy tili. Toshkent: Fan va texnologiya, 2009.

B. 100

Hodjiyeva, N. H. (2021). Leksika frukta v lirike Alishera

Navai. Sovremennaya nauka: aktual'nye voprosy,

dostizheniya i innovatsii. 2021. S. 148-150.

Bahramova, D. (2015). Fitomorfik va fitonimik

metaforashning xalk hayotidagi o'rni. Zamonaviy

tilshunoslik va lingvodidaktikaning kommunikativ

aspektlari Respublika ilmiy-amaliy anjumani

materiallari. Samarqand, 2015 yil 1-2 may, 22-23 b.

Pazilova, N. M., & Turdubekova, I. O. Q. (2021). Principles

of using authentic materials to develop speaking skills

of young EFL learners. Academic research in

educational sciences. 2021. Т. 2. S. 1160-1163.

Pazilova, N., & Isroilov, X. (2023). THE PROBLEMS OF

PHRASEOLOGY AND PHRASEOLOGISMS.

Eurasian Journal of Academic Research. 2023. Т. 3.

Part 1. S. 7-11.

Solijonov, S. O. (2022). The Spheres of Pragmatic

Competence. Journal of Pedagogical Inventions and

Practices. 2022. Т. 7. S. 167-171.

O’rinboyeva, G. (2022). The Stylistic Essence and the

Functions of Terminological Words. Texas Journal of

Philology, Culture and History. 2022. Т. 6. S. 45-48.

Phytonym Metaphors: A Comparative Analysis in English and Uzbek

771