A comparative analysis of the usage of Greek and Russian proverbs in everyday communication

Abstract

The purpose of the research is to determine the linguistic status of proverbs and sayings in everyday speech of Greek and Russian native speakers. The results highlighted that both Greek and Russian speakers are well acquainted with a large number of proverbs and sayings (more than 50), but rarely use them in everyday life. Everyday paremiology is passed down from generation to generation and plays a key role in preserving cultural heritage and shaping the spiritual and moral image of society. The research also underlines the purpose behind the usage proverbs and sayings in everyday communication. It was concluded that most Greek speakers use proverbs and sayings to make information more understandable and convincing. At the same time, most Russian speakers use proverbs and sayings to express irony and relieve tension in communication. Thus, the purposes of using proverbs and sayings in everyday speech among these two nations are different. To conduct the study, the methods of sociological survey and comparative analysis were used. The scientific novelty of the research lies in the fact that the frequency of use of proverbs and sayings was determined, which reflects the characteristics of the speakers’ national identity. The practical results the research help to better understand the cultural characteristics of Greek and Russian native speakers, which helps improve the quality of intercultural communication. The above pilot data helped us to recognize the fact that the understanding and interpretation of proverbs indicate the way metaphor is used in everyday communication. Proverbs and sayings exemplify how humans use language to convey complex ideas and values through metaphorical structures. They help not only to communicate, but also to understand the world through the prism of culture and language, which is an important aspect of human thinking and cognitive abilities.