Xorijiy lingvistika va lingvodidaktika –
Зарубежная лингвистика и
лингводидактика – Foreign
Linguistics and Linguodidactics
Journal home page:
https://inscience.uz/index.php/foreign-linguistics
Stereotypes of Uzbek and English cultures: a comparative
exploration
Nargiza SULEYMANOVA
1
, Abdugani AMANOV
2
Олийгох (Cambria Math-11)
ARTICLE INFO
ABSTRACT
Article history:
Received December 2024
Received in revised form
10 January 2024
Accepted 25 January 2024
Available online
25 February 2025
Stereotypes of Uzbek and English cultures offer insight into
the distinctive values and customs of each society. Uzbek
culture is often associated with hospitality, strong family ties,
and a love for celebrations, while English culture is recognized
for its politeness, reserved emotional expression, and dry
humor. A comparative exploration of these stereotypes
enhances our understanding of each culture’s unique attributes
and their historical context.
2181-3701/© 2024 in Science LLC.
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47689/2181-3701-vol3-iss2
This is an open-access article under the Attribution 4.0 International
(CC BY 4.0) license (
https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/deed.ru
Keywords:
stereotype,
culture,
hospitality,
family values,
celebrations,
cuisine.
O‘zbek va ingliz madaniyatlariga oid stereotiplar: qiyosiy
tahlil
ANNOTATSIYA
Kalit so‘zlar:
stereotip,
madaniyat,
mehmondo‘stlik,
oilaviy qadriyatlar,
bayramlar,
taomlar.
O‘zbek va ingliz madaniyatlari o‘rtasidagi stereotiplarni
taqqoslash, har ikki jamiyatning qadriyatlari va ijtimoiy
odatlarining
qanday
shakllanishini
ko‘rsatadi.
O‘zbek
madaniyati mehmondo‘stlik, oilaviy qadriyatlar va bayramlarga
bo‘lgan muhabbat bilan ajralib turadi. Ingliz madaniyati esa
o‘zining rasmiylik, siyrak hissiyotlar ifodasi va “quruq” hazillari
bilan tanilgan. Ushbu stereotiplar har ikkala madaniyatni
tushunishga yordam beradi va ularning har birining alohida
xususiyatlarini yoritadi.
1
PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Theoretical Aspects of the English Language, Samarkand State Institute of
Foreign Languages. E-maail: nargizasulimanova@gmail.com
2
Senior Teacher, Department of Theoretical Aspects of the English Language, Samarkand State Institute of Foreign
Languages. E-mail: abduganiamanov2203@gmail.com
Xorijiy lingvistika va lingvodidaktika – Зарубежная лингвистика
и лингводидактика – Foreign Linguistics and Linguodidactics
Special Issue –2 (2025) / ISSN 2181-3701
137
Стереотипы узбекской и английской культур:
сравнительное исследование
АННОТАЦИЯ
Ключевые слова:
стереотип,
культура,
гостеприимство,
семейные ценности,
праздники,
кухня.
Стереотипы узбекской и английской культур часто
упрощают их восприятие, но при этом отражают основные
культурные ценности и обычаи. Узбекская культура
славится гостеприимством, семейными ценностями и
любовью к праздникам, в то время как английская
культура ассоциируется с вежливостью, сдержанностью и
особым стилем юмора. Сравнительный анализ этих
стереотипов
помогает
лучше
понять
уникальные
особенности обеих культур.
INTRODUCTION
Traditionally social psychologists had been “stereotypical” about stereotypes.
Especially the early work in this field presented stereotypes as misleading, extreme and
destructive in the context of inter-group relations. Such a position is explained by the fact
that most researchers focused initially on the study of antagonistic groups that shared a
past of conflict, exploitation and violence.
The study of stereotypes has become increasingly prominent in social psychology,
particularly in issues such as prejudice and discrimination. According to Leyens, J.-Ph.,
and Bourhis, stereotypes are deeply connected to major research topics within the field.
The concept was first introduced by Walter Lippmann, who described stereotypes as
fixed mental images that influence perception. His work anticipated several key ideas in
modern research, including the cognitive basis of stereotypes (Hamilton, 1981), their role
in conserving mental energy (Macrae et al., 1994), and the tension between stereotyping
and individualized perception (Fiske and Neuberg, 1990). Lippmann argued that
stereotypes simplify our understanding of the world by shaping our perceptions based
on past experiences. However, he also noted that people tend to avoid stereotyping those
they love or admire.
Cultural stereotypes often offer a simplistic and generalized view of different
societies, shaping how they are perceived by others. Uzbek and English cultures, rooted
in distinct historical and social contexts, have their own sets of stereotypes. While these
perceptions can sometimes be misleading, they also reveal insights into the cultural
values and practices of each nation.
Stereotypes of Uzbek Culture
Uzbek culture is deeply influenced by its rich history, Islamic traditions, and
Central Asian heritage. Stereotypes of Uzbeks typically focus on their hospitality, family
values, and love for festivities. Uzbeks are often depicted as extremely hospitable and
generous. It’s common to hear that they go out of their way to make guests feel welcome.
This stereotype holds some truth, as hospitality is a significant cultural value in
Uzbekistan. Offering food and drink to guests is considered a mark of respect, though not
every individual may express this to the same extent. Uzbek culture is frequently
portrayed as highly traditional, particularly in matters like family roles and dress codes.
While traditional values are important, especially in rural areas, urban centers tend to be
more modern and diverse in their lifestyles, blending old traditions with contemporary
influences.
Xorijiy lingvistika va lingvodidaktika – Зарубежная лингвистика
и лингводидактика – Foreign Linguistics and Linguodidactics
Special Issue –2 (2025) / ISSN 2181-3701
138
Hospitality-focused:
Uzbeks are stereotyped as incredibly hospitable, always
welcoming guests with open arms and large meals.
Traditional and family-oriented:
Uzbeks are seen as strongly tied to family values
and cultural traditions.
Love of tea:
Much like the British stereotype, Uzbeks are known for drinking tea,
particularly green tea, all day long. Especially, men go to “choyxona” (special place)
where they can drink tea.
Big eaters
: Uzbeks are often associated with their love of hearty meals, especially
dishes like plov rice with meat and vegetables.
Always in traditional clothing
: There’s a stereotype that Uzbeks, especially in
rural areas, always wear traditional clothing like doppies (embroidered caps) and atlas
dresses.
Great dancers
: Uzbeks are often seen as lively and enthusiastic when it comes to
dancing at social events and weddings.
Camel riders
: a misconception exists that Uzbeks commonly ride camels,
reflecting a stereotype of Central Asia as a desert region.
Superstitions
: Uzbeks are sometimes stereotyped as being very superstitious,
relying on folk traditions and beliefs.
Fond of bazaar
: Uzbeks are known for frequenting bazaars (markets), where
bargaining is a common cultural practice.
Love of gold teeth
: There’s a stereotype that many Uzbeks, particularly in older
generations, have gold teeth as a status symbol.
1. Hospitality and Generosity.
Uzbeks are often portrayed as exceptionally
hospitable. Guests are treated with utmost respect, often welcomed with a table full of
traditional dishes such as plov, samsa, and shashlik. It is common to hear that “a guest is
a blessing” in Uzbek culture, and this mindset fosters a reputation for generosity and
warmth.
2. Family-Oriented Values.
The family is the cornerstone of Uzbek life. Respect
for elders and strong familial ties are central to the culture. This stereotype emphasizes a
society where traditional roles and values are upheld, particularly in rural areas where
multi-generational households are common.
3. Festive Celebrations.
Uzbek culture is synonymous with vibrant celebrations.
Weddings, Navruz (the Persian New Year), and other festivals are marked by grand
gatherings, colorful attire, music, and dance. These events showcase the community’s
emphasis on joy and togetherness.
4. Conservatism and Modesty.
Uzbeks are often stereotyped as modest and
conservative, especially in dress and social conduct. Traditional attire, such as the atlas or
adras fabric, is frequently associated with their cultural identity. While urban areas are
increasingly modernized, many rural regions still reflect these traditional values.
5. Culinary Love.
Food is an integral part of Uzbek culture, and the stereotype of
Uzbeks being passionate about their cuisine is well-founded. The preparation and
sharing of dishes like plov symbolize hospitality and community spirit.
Stereotypes of English Culture.
English culture, influenced by centuries of
colonialism, industrialization, and global interaction, is often stereotyped as reserved and
steeped in tradition.
Xorijiy lingvistika va lingvodidaktika – Зарубежная лингвистика
и лингводидактика – Foreign Linguistics and Linguodidactics
Special Issue –2 (2025) / ISSN 2181-3701
139
Obsessed with tea:
Brits are often seen as constantly drinking tea, and it’s
considered a national pastime.
Reserved and polite:
British people are perceived as very formal, polite and
hesitant to express their true emotions.
Sarcastic and dry sense of humor:
known for wit and dry humor, often
misunderstood by non-Brits.
Bad food:
British cuisine is stereotyped as bland or unappetizing, though this
view is outdated.
Always talking about the weather:
Brits are thought to frequently discuss the
weather as a safe conversation topic.
Love of queuing
: there is a stereotype that British people are particularly orderly
when it comes to waiting in lines.
Stiff upper lip
: Maintaining composure and emotional restraint in tough
situations is seen as a key British trait.
Obsession with the monarchy
: Brits are often assumed to have a deep fascination
and reverence for the royal family.
Pale and always cold
: There’s an assumption that British people have pale skin
and can’t handle heat or cold well.
Constantly apologizing:
It’s believed that British people say “sorry” excessively,
even when it’s not necessary.
1. Politeness and Formality.
English people are often perceived as overly polite,
frequently using phrases like “sorry,” “please,” and “thank you.” This stereotype reflects a
culture that values etiquette and formality in social interactions.
2. Love for Tea.
The English obsession with tea is one of the most enduring
stereotypes. Afternoon tea, complete with biscuits or scones, is often seen as a
quintessential English tradition.
3. Reserved Demeanor.
The concept of the “
stiff upper lip
” paints English people
as emotionally restrained and composed, even in difficult situations. This stereotype
emphasizes a society that values personal privacy and discretion.
4. Punctuality and Orderliness.
Punctuality is often associated with English
culture. Schedules and timeliness are considered important, reflecting a structured and
disciplined lifestyle.
5. Dry Humor.
English humor is stereotyped as dry, sarcastic, and often self-
deprecating. This form of wit is seen as a hallmark of the culture, distinguishing it from
the humor of other nations.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS
While stereotypes can oversimplify, comparing these perceptions highlights key
cultural differences:
Social Interaction: Uzbeks are often seen as warm and expressive, prioritizing
personal relationships, while the English are stereotyped as reserved and formal in their
interactions.
Food and Hospitality:
Uzbek culture is celebrated for its rich and communal
culinary traditions, while English cuisine is often viewed as simple, with tea as its most
iconic element.
Tradition and Modernity:
Uzbeks are characterized by their deep connection to
tradition, particularly in rural areas, whereas the English are seen as blending tradition
with modern values, balancing old customs with contemporary lifestyles.
Xorijiy lingvistika va lingvodidaktika – Зарубежная лингвистика
и лингводидактика – Foreign Linguistics and Linguodidactics
Special Issue –2 (2025) / ISSN 2181-3701
140
CONCLUSION
In summary, both Uzbek and English cultures emphasize community and family,
but they express these values differently. Uzbek culture leans more toward tradition,
family cohesion, and collective identity, while English culture balances individualism
with politeness and an evolving approach to gender equality. Stereotypes, while offering
some insights into these cultures, cannot fully capture the diversity and complexity
inherent in both Uzbekistan and England. Stereotypes of Uzbek and English cultures,
while not always accurate, offer a glimpse into the values, behaviors, and traditions of
these societies. Uzbeks are celebrated for their warmth, hospitality, and adherence to
tradition, while the English are recognized for their politeness, humor, and reserved
nature. Understanding these perceptions can foster greater cultural appreciation and
encourage deeper exploration beyond the stereotypes.
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