Folklore as a Source of Replenishment of Expressive Vocabulary in the Tuvan Language
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: This article explores metaphorical expressions as part of the expressive lexicon in Tuvan. It examines how semantic derivation contributes to the expressive vocabulary. Language naturally economizes, often relying on metaphor for expressive naming. Myths, fairy tales, heroic epics, and shamanic chants (algysh), are significant source of expressive vocabulary in Tuvan. Characters and mythical creatures from these sources are frequently used to describe people. While these expressions lack explicit markers of expressivity, native speakers intuitively recognize their expressive potential. The imagery embedded in these connotative meanings can convey positive or negative assessments. Metaphorical expressions serve as versatile tools for expressing emotional attitudes and social judgments. The article provides examples illustrating how words acquire new meanings through semantic derivation, expand their semantic scope, and are analyzed and compared. The analysis reveals that certain lexical bases are productive, generating new words and phrases in contemporary Tuvan and being actively used in everyday speech. Interestingly, the gender of the mythical creature from which these expressive words originate does not always determine their usage. Folklore thus emerges as a rich reservoir of expressive vocabulary, highlighting the expressiveness of the Tuvan language.
Author: Ellada Annai
Language: English
Subfield: Language and Linguistics
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
OpenAlex ID: W4415314560