Proverb Representation in Modern Russian: Analysis,

Transformation, and Dynamics

Dilshoda Sharipova Kamalovna

Navoi Innovations University, Navoiy, Uzbekistan

Keywords: Linguistic Axiology, Proverbs, Paremiological Concepts, Alphabetical-Core Dictionaries, Thematic

Dictionaries, Structural-Semantic Transformations, Axiological Components, Russian Language,

Lexicography, Linguistic Trends.

Abstract: This article explores the representation of proverbs in alphabetical-core and thematic dictionaries, focusing

on linguistic axiology. It analyses dynamic processes in Russian paremiology, blending domestic

lexicography with current linguistic shifts. Emphasising actively used proverbs, it explores their structural-

semantic changes and axiological aspects. The study elucidates methods for revealing the evaluative nature

of proverbs and their transformations, including emotive-evaluative notes and functional-pragmatic

comments. It categorises transformations by structural-semantic models, enabling a comprehensive analysis

of axiological shifts. The article underscores new trends in paremiology, such as humorous-ironic attitudes

towards traditional values, reflecting contemporary linguistic creativity in Russian.

1 INTRODUCTION

In recent years, axiological paremiology has emerged

as a distinct field within linguistics, moving beyond

the analysis of individual proverb components to a

cognitive-discursive model of evaluative semantics

based on cultural values. Paremias, viewed as

linguistic units with evaluative direction, play a

crucial role in defining the axiological layer of

concepts. Notable scholars such as T.B. Radbil and

V.V. Saygin have contributed to this paradigm shift.

The evaluation of Russian paremias, particularly

proverbs, has a rich history dating back to V.I. Dal

and I.I. Illustrov. While contemporary

paremiographic sources offer detailed emotive-

evaluative notes, there's a gap in reflecting dynamic

changes in paremiological corpus.

Linguoculturologists and paremiologists explore

transformations in traditional paremias, yet

lexicographers merely record these without

parameterization. This study proposes a model for

linguo-axiological representation of proverbs, aiming

to reflect the evolution of Russian paremiology from

the 19th to the 21st century. It contributes to the

theoretical understanding of paremias and informs the

creation of a Paremiological Dictionary of the Eastern

Slavs. This innovative concept holds promise for

cross-linguistic research.

2 METHOD

In this study, the thematic category "Home" was

selected to illustrate and analyse the model of linguo-

axiological interpretation of proverbs. This choice is

justified by the home's significance as both a

fundamental utilitarian value and a reflection of

national mentality, embodying a framework of

worldviews and a repository of ancestral wisdom, as

noted in the literature (Moroz et al., 2014).

The analysis of proverbs will employ historical-

etymological, componential, contextual, and linguo-

axiological methods. Proverbs will be sourced from

previously mentioned dictionaries and

paremiological collections. Furthermore,

contemporary Russian speakers' internet

communications, informant surveys, and oral speech

recordings will be utilised to assess the relevance of

the studied proverbs. This comprehensive approach

aims to document proverbial transformations and

elucidate the mechanisms underlying these

transformations through structural-semantic

modelling.

Kamalovna, D.

Proverb Representation in Modern Russian: Analysis, Transformation, and Dynamics.

DOI: 10.5220/0012953700003882

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 1095-1098

ISBN: 978-989-758-723-8

1095

To parameterize the material lexicographically, with

a focus on the axiological aspect, a methodology

tailored for this study is applied. Drawing from both

established practices in proverb description in

dictionaries and our own advancements in the field

(Mokienko et al., 2018), this methodology ensures a

robust analysis of the axiological content of the

proverbs under scrutiny.

3 RESULTS & DISCUSSION

The axiological significance of proverbs, particularly

those concerning "Home" in V.I. Dal's works,

underscores the centrality of home as a locus of

familial unity and moral grounding. Dal's

elucidations enhance modern readers' understanding

of these proverbs' literal and metaphorical meanings

(Dal', 1879).

In the "Great Dictionary of Russian Proverbs,"

Dal's commentaries provide additional insights into

proverbial meanings. For instance, Dal emphasizes

the importance of care and attention for the home in

proverbs like "A house is a matter of care". Out of 350

proverbs on "home" selected for the dictionary, only

three remain relevant today, indicating shifts in

cultural values. Although not explicitly articulated,

these proverbs carry emotive-evaluative undertones

in their definitions and comments. Illustrative

examples in dictionaries, including ironic

interpretations of proverbs like "My home is my

fortress," demonstrate the necessity of cultural-

historical context for full comprehension (Mokienko

et al., 2018).

To cater to modern communicative needs,

educational paremiological dictionaries in stories

have been developed, offering practical insights into

proverb usage in various contexts (Nikitina et al.,

2013). For instance, the proverb "At home, even the

walls help" finds resonance in contemporary settings

like remote learning or sporting events (Rogaleva et

al., 2019).

Analyzing semantic transformations of active

proverbs reveals their adaptability to contemporary

contexts. For instance, the proverb "It's good to visit,

but better at home" exhibits various structural-

semantic models, highlighting its versatility.

Experimental lexicographic projects aim to

capture these dynamics. For example, a forthcoming

alphabetical-core dictionary intends to reflect

structural-semantic transformations alongside

traditional proverbs, offering a comprehensive view

of contemporary paremiology.

In this evolving landscape, proverbs continue to

serve as cultural markers, reflecting shifting values

and linguistic creativity, often for humorous effect

rather than profound axiological shifts.

Moreover, the thematic category of "Home"

within V.I. Dal's works, notably in "Proverbs of the

Russian People" and the "Explanatory Dictionary of

the Living Great Russian Language," epitomizes the

intrinsic cultural and social significance attributed to

the concept of home in Russian linguistic and cultural

heritage. Dal's meticulous annotations and

interpretations elucidate not only the literal meanings

but also the metaphorical nuances embedded within

these proverbs, enriching readers' comprehension of

their axiological dimensions.

Delving further into the realm of Russian

paremiology, the "Great Dictionary of Russian

Proverbs," a compendium amalgamating Dal's

contributions with other scholarly sources, serves as

a reservoir of proverbial wisdom. Dal's insightful

annotations augment the meanings of proverbs, such

as "A house is a matter of care," emphasizing the

imperative of diligence and vigilance in maintaining

one's home.

While perusing the extensive collection of

proverbs pertaining to "home," it becomes apparent

that only a select few have withstood the test of time,

resonating with contemporary audiences. Despite not

explicitly articulating axiological tenets, these

proverbs implicitly convey emotive-evaluative

sentiments through their definitions and

accompanying annotations, reflecting subtle shifts in

societal values.

Furthermore, the inclusion of illustrative

examples within dictionaries, elucidating the

contextual usage of proverbs, elucidates their

axiological underpinnings. Particularly noteworthy

are the ironic interpretations of proverbs like "My

home is my fortress," which underscore the

indispensable role of cultural-historical context in

deciphering their meanings.

In response to the evolving communicative

landscape, educational paremiological dictionaries

have been devised to contextualise proverbial usage

in contemporary scenarios. These narratives offer

practical insights into the application of proverbs

across various domains, from academia to leisure

activities, thereby fostering a deeper understanding

among learners. For instance, the adage "At home,

even the walls help" finds resonance in modern

contexts such as remote learning and sports events,

exemplifying the enduring relevance of proverbial

wisdom.

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Moreover, a nuanced analysis of semantic

transformations in active proverbs unveils their

remarkable adaptability to shifting societal norms and

cultural contexts. Take, for instance, the proverb "It's

good to visit, but better at home," which undergoes

structural-semantic modifications, mirroring

contemporary sociolinguistic dynamics and attesting

to its enduring relevance.

As lexicographic endeavours endeavour to

encapsulate these dynamic shifts, forthcoming

alphabetical-core dictionaries are poised to document

the intricate interplay between tradition and

innovation in paremiological discourse. By

juxtaposing traditional proverbs with their

transformed counterparts, these dictionaries offer a

holistic portrayal of contemporary paremiology,

facilitating a nuanced understanding of cultural

evolution.

In summation, proverbs serve as conduits of

cultural heritage and societal values, transcending

temporal boundaries to impart timeless wisdom. As

the linguistic landscape continues to evolve, these

age-old adages persist as invaluable repositories of

collective wisdom, reflecting the dynamic tapestry of

human experience and cultural evolution.

4 CONCLUSION

In conclusion, the conceptual framework for

linguistic-axiological representation of proverbs in

alphabetical and thematic dictionaries integrates the

rich heritage of domestic lexicography with

contemporary shifts in the paremiological landscape

of the Russian language. This model not only

explicates the evaluative nature of proverbs but also

meticulously analyses their structural-semantic

transformations and axiological dimensions. By

categorising transforms according to their models and

embedding them within thematic sections,

dictionaries offer a nuanced portrayal of the evolution

of cultural values and linguistic creativity.

Furthermore, the inclusion of emotive-evaluative

markers and comments in the thematic dictionary

underscores the emergence of new axiological themes

in proverbial material. Neoparemi and transformed

proverbs, while often adopting a humorous-ironic

tone towards traditional values, serve to reflect the

linguistic-creative tendencies of contemporary

Russian language. Thus, these dictionaries not only

serve as repositories of cultural heritage but also as

mirrors reflecting the dynamic interplay between

tradition and innovation in linguistic expression.

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