SCIENCE AND INNOVATION IN THE
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ZOONYMIC LEXICON OF KARAKALPAK AND ENGLISH
PAREMIOLOGY
Mnajatdinova Nargiza Aynatdin qizi
2nd year doctoral student of KSU
https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.15813906
Abstract.
This article explores the zoonymic lexicon found in Karakalpak
and English proverbs, highlighting how animals serve as symbolic figures that
convey cultural values, human traits, and social norms. By analyzing the
representation of key animals such as the wolf, horse, and camel in Karakalpak
proverbs, and the wolf, bird, and sheep in English sayings, the study reveals both
similarities and differences shaped by each culture’s ecological environment and
historical background. The article further discusses the role of zoonymic
proverbs in cultural transmission and intercultural understanding. The findings
demonstrate that while animal symbolism varies, the universal use of zoonymic
imagery strengthens the connection between language, culture, and nature.
Keywords:
zoonymic lexicon, Karakalpak proverbs, English proverbs,
animal symbolism, cultural values, paremiology, comparative linguistics,
intercultural communication
Introduction.
Language reflects culture, environment, and human
interaction with nature. One fascinating aspect of language study is the
examination of paremiology—the study of proverbs—which reveals deep
cultural values and traditional wisdom. Among proverbs, those containing
zoonyms (animal names) are particularly insightful. This article explores the
zoonymic lexicon of Karakalpak and English paremiology, aiming to compare
and analyze how animals are symbolized and conceptualized in the proverbs of
these two languages. By highlighting the semantic roles and cultural
connotations of animal-related expressions, we gain a better understanding of
the cultural worldviews embedded in the Karakalpak and English linguistic
traditions.
In Karakalpak paremiology, animals play a crucial role as symbols of
various human qualities and social norms. Because Karakalpakstan’s
environment is dominated by steppes, deserts, and semi-arid zones, the animals
frequently referenced in proverbs are those that thrive in these conditions.
Consequently, camels, horses and eagles are recurrent figures in the Karakalpak
zoonymic lexicon. Firstly, the horse (at) holds a significant place in Karakalpak
culture due to the historical importance of nomadic pastoralism. The proverb
“At qádirin joq biler, as qádirin toq biler” emphasizes respect and responsibility.
Unlike some cultures that view the horse purely as a tool or status symbol,
Karakalpak proverbs suggest a reciprocal relationship, indicating that humans
must care for their animals, which in turn support their livelihood. Additionally,
the camel (túye), often seen as a symbol of patience and endurance, appears in
proverbs such as “At aylıģın oylaydı, Túye jıllıģın oylaydı, Eshek eki ayaģınıń
astın oylaydı”. This implies that the wise and experienced have the final say in
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important matters. The camel’s ability to endure harsh desert conditions
metaphorically represents human perseverance in difficult times. Furthermore,
the eagle (búrkit) symbolizes freedom, sharp vision, and power. Although less
frequent in proverbs compared to horses or camels, the eagle's imagery conveys
lofty ideals and vigilance. For instance, "Ájeli jetken ģarģa, búrkit penen
oynaydı". In summary, the Karakalpak zoonymic lexicon in proverbs is deeply
intertwined with the natural environment and nomadic lifestyle, reflecting
values such as wisdom, responsibility, endurance, and community [5].
On the other hand, English paremiology, shaped by different ecological and
cultural conditions, employs animals common in the British Isles and other
English-speaking regions, such as birds, sheep, wolves, and chickens. These
animals serve as metaphors to teach lessons about human behavior and social
norms. One of the most famous English proverbs is “A wolf in sheep’s clothing,”
which warns of deception and hidden threats. Here, the wolf is associated with
cunning and danger, contrasting sharply with the innocence and vulnerability
represented by the sheep. This metaphor reflects societal caution and the need
to be vigilant against false appearances. Similarly, birds appear frequently in
English proverbs, often symbolizing alertness and initiative. The saying “The
early bird catches the worm” encourages prompt action and rewards diligence.
In this case, the bird’s behavior is anthropomorphized to provide practical
advice about the value of being proactive. Another common English proverb is
“Don’t count your chickens before they hatch,” which uses the chicken, a familiar
domestic animal, to warn against premature optimism or assuming success too
early. This reflects a practical and cautious mindset rooted in agricultural
experience. Moreover, English proverbs often emphasize humility, patience, and
prudence, with animals symbolizing these virtues. For example, the phrase “You
can lead a horse to water, but you can’t make it drink” uses the horse to convey
the limits of external influence over individual will. In brief, English zoonymic
proverbs are largely influenced by pastoral and agricultural life and often focus
on warning, prudence, and the consequences of human behavior [2, 103-105].
Despite the differences in fauna and cultural settings, Karakalpak and
English proverbs share a common feature: animals serve as metaphors to
express human experiences, ethical teachings, and societal values. Both
languages use the zoonymic lexicon to simplify complex human traits and
behaviors through familiar animal characteristics. However, there are clear
differences. For example, the wolf in Karakalpak proverbs often embodies
positive traits such as foresight and loyalty, whereas in English, the wolf more
commonly symbolizes danger and deceit. This contrast underscores how
cultural perception shapes animal symbolism. Additionally, animals that are
central to the daily life of the community tend to appear more frequently in
proverbs. Thus, horses and camels are prominent in Karakalpak expressions
because of the nomadic heritage, while birds and sheep dominate English
proverbs due to agricultural traditions. Furthermore, the functions of proverbs
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differ slightly. Karakalpak proverbs often stress respect for nature and the
balance between humans and animals, reflecting a worldview of coexistence.
Conversely, English proverbs frequently emphasize individual caution and social
morality, which aligns with Western cultural values of individualism and
pragmatism.
It is important to recognize that zoonymic proverbs play a critical role in
transmitting cultural knowledge and social norms across generations. They act
as mnemonic devices, making moral lessons more relatable and memorable
through animal imagery. For instance, the proverb “At qa dirin joq biler, as
qa dirin toq biler” not only teaches responsibility but also reinforces the
traditional importance of horses in Karakalpak society. Similarly, English
children learn caution and prudence early through sayings like “Don’t count
your chickens before they hatch.” Moreover, the zoonymic lexicon preserves
environmental awareness. Since animals featured in proverbs are part of the
local ecosystem, the proverbs encourage respect for biodiversity and highlight
human dependence on nature. Finally, in a globalizing world, understanding
zoonymic proverbs can foster intercultural dialogue. By studying how different
cultures symbolize animals, people gain insight into other value systems and
worldviews.
Conclusion.
In conclusion, the study of the zoonymic lexicon in Karakalpak
and English proverbs highlights both shared human values and distinct cultural
views. While animals in both languages symbolize human virtues and social
lessons, the specific animals and their meanings reflect each culture’s unique
environment and history. Karakalpak proverbs, rooted in nomadic traditions,
focus on animals like horses, camels, and wolves as symbols of endurance and
respect. In contrast, English proverbs, influenced by agricultural life, emphasize
birds, sheep, and wolves to teach caution and social morals. Zoonymic proverbs
also play an important role in passing down cultural knowledge and promoting
respect for nature. Studying them enhances linguistic understanding and
intercultural awareness, showing the deep link between language, culture, and
nature
References:
1.
Belova, Ekaterina Evgenyevna, et al. "The linguistic cultural analysis of
phraseological units with the zoonym component." European Proceedings of
Social and Behavioural Sciences (2021).
2.
Egamberdiyeva, Yulduz. "PAREMIOLOGICAL TEXTS AND THE LINGUO-
COGNITIVE ANALYSIS OF ZOONYMIC COMPONENTS." Web of Scientists and
Scholars: Journal of Multidisciplinary Research 3.2 (2025): 103-105.
SCIENCE AND INNOVATION IN THE
EDUCATION SYSTEM
International scientific-online conference
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3.
Rayeva, A., and S. Eker. "Linguoculturalogical semantic aspects of zoo-
phraseological units in Turkic Languages." Вестник КазНУ. Серия
филологическая 195.3 (2024).
4.
Mnajatdinova Nargiza Aynatdin kizi "QARAQALPAQ HÁM INGLIS
TILLERINDE ZOONIMIYALÌQ PAREMIOLOGIYALÌQ LEKSIKON." Eurasian Journal
of Academic Research 4.6-3 (2024): 41-45.
5.
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