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Vol. 12 No. 06 (2025)
International Multidisciplinary Journal for Research & Development

Articles

THE ART OF THE PROVERB: USING WISE SAYINGS TO NAVIGATE EVERYDAY CONVERSATIONS

Published 2025-06-24

  • Axmedov Ikboljon

Axmedov Ikboljon
English language teacher, Kokand University,

Abstract

Proverbs are succinct, culturally embedded expressions that encapsulate practical wisdom, social norms, and shared values.  This investigation investigates the pragmatic function and contextual application of English-language proverbs in everyday conversations among university students in the Fergana Valley region of Uzbekistan.  Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and observation of natural discourse among 56 English learners from three regional universities, utilizing a qualitative research design.  Thematic analysis demonstrated that students primarily employed proverbs to persuade, advise, convey solidarity, or resolve social tension, with the effectiveness of these strategies being significantly influenced by cultural familiarity and contextual awareness.  Although proverbs facilitated informal communication, they were frequently misapplied, frequently as a result of a literal interpretation or a lack of cultural context.  The results corroborate the existing literature on the cognitive and social utility of proverbs (e.g., Norrick, 1985; Wierzbicka, 2003) and emphasize the necessity of incorporating pragmatic and cultural instruction into second-language curricula.  Educators and learners are advised to improve their proverb proficiency and mitigate the likelihood of miscommunication.

Keywords

Proverbs; Pragmatic Competence; Intercultural Communication; Second Language Learning; Figurative Language; Miscommunication; Fergana Valley; Qualitative Research; Language and Culture; Sociolinguistics.

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References

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