汉英成语的共性和差异

On the similarities and differences between Chinese and English idioms

英语成语的功能特征明显,汉语成语则更讲究外部的形式整齐和内部的音节对称。英语也有喜欢对称的倾向,但英语自身显得力不从心。汉英成语有语义重合的有趣现象。这些共性与差异与民族心理及语言符号形式本身均有关系。

This paper discusses a comparative study of Chinese and English idioms. The English idioms are more functional than ornamental, while Chinese idioms are apparently charming and syllabically symmetrical.However despite the dissimilarities both overlap in meaning. It is suggested that the relationships are due to psychology and language intrinsic system itself.