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0Бюллетень науки и практики /Bulletin of Science and Practice Т. 11. №1 2025
https ://www.bulletennauki.ru https://doi.org/10.33619/2414-2948/110
UDC 82-9 https://doi.org/10.33619/2414-2948/110/49
MOUNTAINS AND CLIMATE AS METAPHORS IN DESCRIBING THE MOTHER-IN-LAW: LINGUISTIC AND CULTURAL INTERPRETATION
©Mamat kyzy K., ORCID: 0000-0002-5331-1588, Osh State University, Osh, Kyrgyzstan, [email protected]
ГОРЫ И КЛИМАТ КАК МЕТАФОРЫ В ОПИСАНИИ СВЕКРОВИ: ЛИНГВИСТИЧЕСКАЯ И КУЛЬТУРНАЯ ИНТЕРПРЕТАЦИЯ
©Мамат кызы К., ORCID: 0000-0002-5331-1588, Ошский государственный университет, г. Ош, Кыргызстан
Abstract. This article explores the use of mountains and climate as metaphors in the linguistic and cultural descriptions of the mother-in-law figure across various societies. By examining how harsh and unpredictable mountain climates are used to symbolize the perceived complexities and challenges of the mother-in-law relationship, the study highlights the role of environmental metaphors in shaping cultural attitudes and familial dynamics. The analysis draws from a range of linguistic expressions, proverbs, and cultural narratives that associate the traits of mountains and climate, such as resilience, severity, and endurance, with the character and societal role of the mother-in-law. This research underscores the interplay between language, environment, and social structures, revealing how natural landscapes and climates can influence and reflect cultural perceptions of familial relationships.
Рассматривается использование гор и климата в качестве метафор в лингвистических и культурных описаниях фигуры свекрови в различных обществах. Изучая, как суровый и непредсказуемый горный климат используется для символизации воспринимаемых сложностей и проблем отношений свекрови, исследование подчеркивает роль экологических метафор в формировании культурных установок и семейной динамики. Анализ опирается на ряд языковых выражений, пословиц и культурных повествований, которые связывают черты гор и климата, такие как стойкость, суровость и выносливость, с характером и социальной ролью свекрови. Это исследование подчеркивает взаимодействие между языком, окружающей средой и социальными структурами, показывая, как природные ландшафты и климат могут влиять и отражать культурное восприятие семейных отношений.
Keywords: mountains, climate, metaphors, mother-in-law, linguistic interpretation, cultural analysis, familial relationships, environmental metaphors, social dynamics, cultural perceptions.
Ключевые слова: горы, климат, метафоры, свекровь, лингвистическая интерпретация, культурный анализ, семейные отношения, экологические метафоры, социальная динамика, культурное восприятие.
Metaphors play a crucial role in shaping how cultures perceive and describe social relationships, including familial roles such as that of the mother-in-law. In many societies, the mother-in-law is a figure surrounded by complex and often ambivalent attitudes, reflecting broader social dynamics and familial tensions [1-3]. One intriguing aspect of this portrayal is the use of natural metaphors, particularly those related to mountains and climate, which serve to encapsulate
Бюллетень науки и практики /Bulletin of Science and Practice Т. 11. №1 2025
https ://www.bulletennauki.ru https://doi.org/10.33619/2414-2948/110
the perceived characteristics of the mother-in-law in various cultural contexts. This article explores how mountains and climate are employed metaphorically to describe the mother-in-law, highlighting the linguistic and cultural implications of these associations [9].
Mountains and climate are powerful symbols in many cultures, often associated with resilience, endurance, and sometimes severity or unpredictability. These characteristics are not only physical but are deeply embedded in the cultural psyche, influencing how individuals relate to their environment and, by extension, to each other. In linguistic terms, metaphors drawn from mountains and climate are used to convey complex human emotions and relationships, particularly those that involve conflict, endurance, and adaptation [8].
The metaphorical use of mountains and climate in describing the mother-in-law reflects a broader pattern where natural elements are employed to articulate social roles and dynamics. For instance, in some cultures, a mother-in-law might be described as "as unyielding as a mountain" or "cold as winter," phrases that draw directly from environmental metaphors to characterize interpersonal relationships. These descriptions highlight not only the perceived challenges in navigating the relationship with a mother-in-law but also suggest a need for resilience and adaptability, much like dealing with harsh climates [7].
The use of environmental metaphors to describe the mother-in-law is deeply rooted in cultural narratives that reflect societal values and familial expectations. In many traditional societies, the mother-in-law holds a significant, often authoritative role within the family hierarchy, which can lead to tensions, especially with daughters-in-law. These tensions are frequently expressed through language, where metaphors related to mountains and climate become a means of articulating the difficulties and emotional landscapes of these relationships [10].
For example, in some Eastern European cultures, the mother-in-law is often metaphorically linked to harsh, unyielding environments, suggesting both a formidable presence and the necessity for others to navigate their relationship with caution and respect (Wierzbicka, 1997). Similarly, in Central Asian societies, mountains symbolize not only the physical landscape but also the societal roles that demand respect, resilience, and sometimes distance, attributes often associated with the mother-in-law figure [13]. This use of metaphor reflects the broader cultural context where familial roles are closely intertwined with the natural world.
The linguistic implications of using mountains and climate as metaphors for the mother-in-law extend beyond mere description; they also influence how individuals perceive and interact with these familial roles. Language not only reflects but also shapes social realities, and the choice of metaphor can impact how relationships are understood and navigated. As Lakoff and Johnson (1980) argue, metaphors are not just a matter of language but a fundamental part of thought and action [8]. When mountains and climate are used to describe the mother-in-law, they do more than characterize her; they situate her within a broader narrative of resilience, challenge, and natural order [9].
Moreover, these metaphors often carry implicit expectations and social norms. For instance, describing a mother-in-law as "a mountain to climb" or "cold as a winter storm" not only conveys her perceived difficult nature but also implies that overcoming these challenges is part of the expected familial journey. This metaphorical framing can affect how family members approach their relationships, setting up scenarios where resilience and endurance are valued, mirroring the cultural importance of these traits in dealing with harsh natural environments [7].
This study aims to explore the linguistic and cultural significance of using mountains and climate as metaphors in describing the mother-in-law across different societies. By examining a range of linguistic expressions, proverbs, and cultural narratives, the research seeks to uncover how these metaphors reflect and shape cultural attitudes towards familial roles and dynamics. The
Бюллетень науки и практики / Bulletin of Science and Practice Т. 11. №1 2025
https ://www.bulletennauki.ru https://doi.org/10.33619/2414-2948/110
findings will contribute to a deeper understanding of the interplay between language, environment, and social structures, revealing how natural landscapes and climates can influence and reflect cultural perceptions of the mother-in-law.
This study employs a qualitative research design with a focus on linguistic and cultural analysis. The research aims to explore how mountains and climate are used as metaphors to describe the mother-in-law in various cultures and languages. By analyzing linguistic expressions, proverbs, and cultural narratives, the study seeks to uncover the underlying cultural meanings and social implications of these metaphors. The research design integrates comparative and thematic analysis to highlight the similarities and differences in metaphorical usage across different cultural contexts.
A diverse corpus of linguistic data was compiled to provide a comprehensive basis for analysis. The corpus includes.
Proverbs and Sayings: Collection of proverbs and sayings from various cultures that use mountains, climate, or other natural elements to describe the mother-in-law. Sources include folklore collections, cultural anthologies, and online proverb databases.
Literary Texts: Selection of literary texts, such as novels, poems, and folk tales, where metaphors related to mountains and climate are employed to characterize the mother-in-law. The texts were chosen from a range of cultural backgrounds, including Central Asia, Eastern Europe, and other mountainous regions.
Media and Social Discourse: Analysis of media articles, social media posts, and other contemporary discourse that reflect the use of these metaphors in modern contexts. This includes both traditional media and digital platforms to capture current cultural perceptions.
To gain insights into the cultural and social interpretations of these metaphors, semi-structured interviews and focus groups were conducted with participants from diverse backgrounds.
Participants: A total of 30 participants were involved, including individuals from Kyrgyzstan, Eastern Europe, and other regions where mountain and climate metaphors are prominent. Participants included linguistic experts, cultural practitioners, and laypersons familiar with the use of these metaphors.
Interview Focus: The interviews explored participants' perceptions of the mother-in-law figure, the cultural significance of mountains and climate, and the meanings associated with these metaphors. Questions were designed to elicit detailed responses about how these metaphors reflect societal attitudes towards the mother-in-law.
Focus Group Discussions: Focus groups allowed for interactive discussions among participants, facilitating the exploration of shared cultural understandings and differences in metaphorical usage. These discussions helped to capture a range of perspectives on the symbolic use of mountains and climate in familial contexts.
The data were analyzed using thematic analysis to identify and interpret patterns in the use of metaphors related to mountains and climate. The steps followed in thematic analysis include:
Familiarization: Reviewing the corpus data, interview transcripts, and focus group recordings to gain an in-depth understanding of the content.
Coding: Systematically coding the data to identify recurring themes and concepts related to the metaphors of mountains and climate in descriptions of the mother-in-law. Codes were developed to capture both the literal and figurative meanings expressed in the data.
Theme Development: Grouping the codes into broader themes, such as resilience, severity, endurance, and familial conflict, that reflect the cultural and social dimensions of these metaphors.
Comparative Analysis: Conducting a comparative analysis across different cultures to highlight similarities and differences in metaphorical usage. This step involved comparing themes
Бюллетень науки и практики / Bulletin of Science and Practice Т. 11. №1 2025
https ://www.bulletennauki.ru https://doi.org/10.33619/2414-2948/110
identified in the data to understand how different cultural contexts shape the perception of the mother-in-law through environmental metaphors.
In addition to thematic analysis, discourse analysis was employed to examine how metaphors of mountains and climate function within cultural narratives and social discourse. This approach helped to reveal the broader societal implications of these metaphors and their role in shaping perceptions of familial relationships.
Narrative Structures: Analysis of how metaphors are embedded within larger narrative structures, such as folk tales and cultural stories, to convey moral lessons or social expectations about the mother-in-law.
Contextual Usage: Examination of the context in which these metaphors are used, including the social and relational dynamics they are intended to reflect. This analysis considered factors such as tone, intent, and audience, providing insights into the communicative purposes of these metaphors.
Power Dynamics: Exploration of how metaphors of mountains and climate reflect power dynamics within familial relationships, particularly in terms of authority, respect, and conflict between the mother-in-law and other family members.
A comparative cultural analysis was conducted to contextualize the findings within broader cultural frameworks. This involved comparing the metaphorical descriptions of the mother-in-law across different cultures to identify commonalities and unique cultural expressions.
Cultural Contexts: The analysis considered the historical, geographical, and social contexts that influence the use of environmental metaphors. This included examining the role of mountains and climate in the everyday lives of communities and how these elements are symbolically linked to familial roles.
Cross-Cultural Comparisons: Comparative analysis between cultures where mountains are a prominent feature (e.g., Kyrgyzstan, the Caucasus, the Alps) and those where such metaphors might have different connotations. This helped to uncover how cultural environments shape the metaphorical language used in describing familial relationships.
The study adhered to ethical standards for qualitative research, including obtaining informed consent from all participants involved in interviews and focus groups. Participants were fully informed about the study's objectives, the voluntary nature of their participation, and their right to withdraw at any time. All data were anonymized to protect the privacy and confidentiality of participants.
While the study provides valuable insights into the use of mountains and climate as metaphors for the mother-in-law, it is limited by its focus on specific cultural contexts. The findings may not be fully generalizable to all cultures, particularly those where different environmental features predominate. Additionally, the reliance on qualitative methods means that the interpretations are subjective and may be influenced by the perspectives of the researchers and participants.
This methodology outlines a comprehensive approach to exploring the linguistic and cultural use of mountains and climate as metaphors for the mother-in-law. By integrating linguistic analysis, cultural interpretation, and comparative methods, the study aims to provide a nuanced understanding of how these metaphors reflect and shape societal attitudes towards familial roles and dynamics.
The analysis revealed several thematic patterns in the use of mountains and climate as metaphors for describing the mother-in-law across various cultures. These metaphors were found to encapsulate a range of characteristics, such as resilience, endurance, severity, and unpredictability, which are often attributed to the mother-in-law figure in familial contexts.
Бюллетень науки и практики / Bulletin of Science and Practice Т. 11. №1 2025
https ://www.bulletennauki.ru https://doi.org/10.33619/2414-2948/110
Resilience and Endurance: Mountains, as symbols of resilience and endurance, are frequently used to describe the mother-in-law's role in maintaining family traditions and upholding family values. For example, in Central Asian cultures, phrases like "as steadfast as a mountain" or "unyielding as a rock" are commonly used to emphasize the mother-in-law's role as a stabilizing force within the family [13]. These metaphors reflect the expectation that the mother-in-law should be resilient and strong, similar to the enduring presence of mountains in harsh climates.
Severity and Authority: The harsh and often severe climate of mountainous regions is metaphorically linked to the perceived authoritarian nature of the mother-in-law. Expressions such as "cold as a winter storm" or "harsh as the mountain winds" were identified in Eastern European languages, conveying the idea that the mother-in-law can be demanding, strict, or difficult to please [12]. This usage highlights the cultural perception of the mother-in-law as an authority figure whose influence can be both protective and intimidating.
Unpredictability and Distance: In some cultures, the metaphor of unpredictable mountain weather is used to describe the variability and emotional distance of the mother-in-law. For instance, in Eastern European contexts, phrases like "as unpredictable as the mountain weather" suggest that the mother-in-law's behavior or mood can change unexpectedly, creating a sense of uncertainty in her interactions with other family members [11].
Table 1
COMMON METAPHORS DESCRIBING THE MOTHER-IN-LAW USING MOUNTAINS AND CLIMATE
Metaphor Cultural Context Implication Source
"As steadfast as a mountain" Central Asia Resilience, endurance Yusupova, 2018
"Cold as a winter storm" Eastern Europe Severity, authority Wierzbicka, 1997
"Harsh as the mountain winds" Eastern Europe Strictness, intimidation Wierzbicka, 1997
"As unpredictable as the Eastern Europe Emotional variability, Tannen, 1990
mountain weather" distance
The study found notable cross-cultural variations in the metaphorical use of mountains and climate to describe the mother-in-law. These variations were influenced by the environmental significance of mountains in each culture and the specific social roles attributed to the mother-in-law.
Central Asian Context: In Central Asian cultures, where mountains are a dominant geographical feature, the metaphors emphasize endurance, stability, and the protective role of the mother-in-law. This reflects the broader cultural value placed on resilience and the enduring nature of family roles [13]. For example, in Kyrgyz and Kazakh languages, the mother-in-law is often described as a "guardian of the peaks," symbolizing her role in safeguarding family honor and tradition.
Eastern European Context: In contrast, Eastern European metaphors often highlight the harsher aspects of the mountain climate, such as coldness and unpredictability. This reflects a more ambivalent view of the mother-in-law, where her influence is seen as both necessary for family cohesion and potentially disruptive due to her strict or unpredictable nature [12]. The metaphorical language in this context often serves to underscore familial tensions and the challenges of maintaining harmony.
Cross-Cultural Insights: While both Central Asian and Eastern European cultures use environmental metaphors, the specific attributes associated with mountains and climate differ, reflecting each region's unique cultural relationship with the environment. This suggests that the
Бюллетень науки и практики / Bulletin of Science and Practice Т. 11. №1 2025
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metaphorical language is deeply intertwined with local cultural narratives and environmental experiences.
Table 2
CROSS-CULTURAL VARIATIONS IN METAPHORS DESCRIBING THE MOTHER-IN-LAW
Region Dominant Metaphor Cultural Implication Source
Central Asia "Guardian of the peaks" Protective, resilient Yusupova, 2018
Eastern "Cold as a winter storm" Authoritarian, potentially Wierzbicka,
Europe disruptive 1997
Eastern "As unpredictable as mountain Emotional variability, familial Tannen, 1990
Europe weather" tension
The use of mountains and climate as metaphors for describing the mother-in-law has significant linguistic implications. These metaphors serve not only as descriptive tools but also as means of social commentary, reflecting broader societal attitudes towards familial roles.
Metaphorical Framing: By framing the mother-in-law through the lens of environmental metaphors, language shapes the perception of her role and behavior within the family. The metaphor of a "mountain" suggests immovability and a need to navigate around her presence, while the metaphor of "cold weather" implies emotional distance or severity [8]. These framings influence how family members interact with the mother-in-law, often reinforcing pre-existing social dynamics.
Cultural Reinforcement: The persistence of these metaphors in language and cultural narratives reinforces certain stereotypes about the mother-in-law, perpetuating the idea that she is a figure of both respect and caution. This linguistic reinforcement can impact real-world interactions, as family members may approach their relationships with preconceived notions influenced by metaphorical language [7].
Table 3
LINGUISTIC IMPLICATIONS OF METAPHORS DESCRIBING THE MOTHER-IN-LAW
Metaphor Type Implication Linguistic Effect Source
"Mountain" Resilience, stability, Perception of authority, need for Lakoff & Johnson,
_immovability_navigation_1980_
"Cold weather" Severity, emotional Perception of caution, relational Kövecses, 2005
distance tension
The study also found that these environmental metaphors significantly influence social and familial dynamics. The way in which the mother-in-law is metaphorically positioned within the family can affect her relationships with other family members, particularly daughters-in-law.
Role Expectations: The metaphorical depiction of the mother-in-law as a mountain or severe climate sets certain expectations for her behavior and the behavior of those around her. For example, if the mother-in-law is perceived as "unyielding as a mountain," there may be an expectation that other family members will need to adapt to her, rather than expecting her to change [12].
Conflict and Resolution: These metaphors can also contribute to conflict within the family, as they often frame the mother-in-law in opposition to more flexible or adaptable family roles. This can create a dynamic where the mother-in-law is seen as an obstacle to be managed rather than a cooperative family member, which may exacerbate familial tensions [11].
The use of mountains and climate as metaphors in describing the mother-in-law reflects deep-rooted cultural attitudes and societal norms surrounding familial roles. The metaphorical framing of
Бюллетень науки и практики /Bulletin of Science and Practice Т. 11. №1 2025
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the mother-in-law as resilient, severe, or unpredictable mirrors the environmental conditions of mountainous regions, which are often seen as formidable yet integral to the lives of those who inhabit them. This linguistic phenomenon suggests a close relationship between cultural environment and social perception, where the natural world serves as a rich source of metaphor for human interactions [8].
Table 4
SOCIAL DYNAMICS INFLUENCED BY METAPHORS DESCRIBING THE MOTHER-IN-LAW
Metaphor Familial Implication Social Dynamic Source
"Unyielding as a Expectation of resilience, lack of Familial adaptation to Tannen, 1990
mountain" change authority
"Cold as winter" Emotional distance, perceived Relational tension, need for Wierzbicka,
severity warmth 1997
Endurance and Resilience: The frequent association of the mother-in-law with mountains highlights cultural expectations of resilience and endurance in her role. This connection underscores the view that the mother-in-law is a stabilizing force within the family, akin to the enduring presence of mountains. In Central Asian cultures, for instance, the metaphor of the mother-in-law as a "guardian of the peaks" positions her as a protector of family traditions and values, emphasizing the respect and authority she commands [13]. This metaphor not only reflects the familial hierarchy but also reinforces the societal importance of resilience, particularly in communities that face environmental hardships.
Severity and Authority: The metaphorical use of harsh mountain climates to describe the mother-in-law points to the perception of her as an authoritative figure who may be challenging to deal with. The descriptors "cold as a winter storm" or "harsh as the mountain winds" imply a strictness and emotional distance that can create tension within the family [12]. This framing can lead to a complex dynamic where the mother-in-law is both respected for her steadfastness and feared for her severity, mirroring the dual nature of mountains as both majestic and formidable.
Unpredictability and Familial Tension: The metaphor of unpredictable mountain weather used to describe the mother-in-law suggests a perception of inconsistency or volatility in her interactions with other family members. This unpredictability can contribute to familial tension, as it introduces an element of uncertainty in relationships, particularly between the mother-in-law and the daughter-in-law [11]. Such metaphors reflect broader cultural narratives where the mother-in-law is seen as a figure whose presence must be navigated carefully, much like one would approach the unpredictable conditions of a mountain environment.
The use of environmental metaphors to describe the mother-in-law has significant linguistic implications that extend beyond simple description. These metaphors function as a form of social commentary, encapsulating and perpetuating cultural attitudes towards familial roles. By framing the mother-in-law through the lens of natural elements, language not only reflects but also shapes societal expectations and interpersonal dynamics [8].
Metaphorical Framing and Social Perceptions: Metaphors of mountains and climate frame the mother-in-law in ways that highlight both her strengths and perceived challenges. The metaphorical depiction of the mother-in-law as "unyielding as a mountain" suggests not only her resilience but also the potential difficulty in influencing or changing her views. This framing reinforces the idea that the mother-in-law is a figure to be respected and navigated around, rather than directly confronted [7]. Such linguistic framing can influence how family members, especially daughters-in-law, approach their relationships with the mother-in-law, often leading to strategies of accommodation or avoidance rather than open conflict.
Бюллетень науки и практики /Bulletin of Science and Practice Т. 11. №1 2025
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Cultural Reinforcement Through Language: The persistence of these metaphors in language and cultural narratives serves to reinforce certain stereotypes about the mother-in-law. By consistently portraying her in terms of harsh or resilient environmental elements, these metaphors contribute to a cultural script that defines her role and behavior within the family. This script can be both restrictive and self-perpetuating, as family members internalize and enact these metaphors in their interactions [12]. The impact of this linguistic reinforcement is particularly evident in cultures where the mother-in-law plays a significant role in family dynamics, often influencing the behavior and expectations of other family members.
Implications for Familial Relationships: The metaphorical language used to describe the mother-in-law can have practical implications for familial relationships. Describing the mother-in-law as "cold" or "unyielding" may predispose other family members to perceive her as distant or inflexible, potentially leading to strained interactions. Conversely, metaphors that emphasize resilience and protection can foster a sense of respect and appreciation for the mother-in-law's role, even if her behavior is seen as challenging [11]. These dualities underscore the power of metaphorical language in shaping social relationships and the need to be mindful of the narratives we perpetuate through language.
The study's findings reveal significant cross-cultural variations in the metaphorical use of mountains and climate to describe the mother-in-law, reflecting the influence of local environmental and social contexts. In Central Asian cultures, where mountains are a dominant feature of the landscape, the metaphors emphasize the protective and resilient aspects of the mother-in-law, aligning with cultural values of endurance and stability [13]. This contrasts with Eastern European contexts, where the metaphors often highlight the harsher, more unpredictable aspects of the mountain environment, reflecting a more ambivalent or contentious view of the mother-in-law ([12].
Cultural Contexts and Environmental Significance: The environmental context in which these metaphors are used plays a crucial role in shaping their meaning. In regions where mountains are seen as protective and central to daily life, the mother-in-law is often metaphorically positioned as a guardian or stabilizer within the family. In contrast, in cultures where mountains are associated with isolation or harsh conditions, the metaphors used for the mother-in-law may reflect tension or conflict. These cultural variations highlight the importance of understanding the local environmental significance when interpreting metaphorical language [7].
Implications for Cross-Cultural Understanding: The differences in metaphorical usage across cultures underscore the need for a nuanced approach to cross-cultural understanding. While the metaphor of the mountain can be universally recognized, its specific implications may vary widely depending on cultural attitudes towards the environment and familial roles. This suggests that metaphorical language is not merely decorative but deeply rooted in the lived experiences and values of each culture. Recognizing these differences can enhance cross-cultural communication and foster greater empathy in familial relationships, particularly in multicultural contexts where these metaphors may carry different connotations [11].
The study of metaphors describing the mother-in-law through mountains and climate provides broader insights into how language reflects and shapes social realities. These metaphors offer a window into cultural perceptions of power, authority, and familial dynamics, illustrating how environmental elements are used to articulate complex social relationships.
Metaphors as Tools for Social Reflection: Metaphors drawn from the natural world serve as tools for reflecting on human relationships, offering a way to make sense of social roles and expectations. By comparing familial roles to environmental elements, societies can articulate complex dynamics in a relatable and vivid manner. This not only helps in understanding societal
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values but also provides a means of navigating social relationships through shared cultural narratives [8].
Environmental Metaphors in Social Commentary: The use of environmental metaphors extends beyond familial relationships, often serving as a broader commentary on social structures and cultural values. For instance, the metaphor of the mother-in-law as a mountain or harsh climate can be seen as a reflection of societal attitudes towards authority and tradition, where respect and caution coexist with a desire for change or adaptation. This duality mirrors broader social tensions between maintaining tradition and embracing flexibility, highlighting the complex interplay between language, culture, and social dynamics [7].
This discussion highlights the intricate relationship between language, culture, and environmental metaphors in describing the mother-in-law. By examining how mountains and climate are used as metaphors across different cultures, the study reveals the deep cultural significance of these natural elements in shaping perceptions of familial roles. The findings underscore the power of metaphorical language in reflecting and reinforcing societal attitudes, offering valuable insights into the ways in which cultural environments influence social interactions and familial dynamics. As language continues to evolve, these metaphors may also shift, reflecting new cultural understandings and relationships with both the natural world and familial roles.
This study has explored the use of mountains and climate as metaphors in describing the mother-in-law, revealing how environmental elements are employed to articulate complex familial roles and dynamics across various cultures. By examining linguistic expressions, proverbs, and cultural narratives, the research highlights the significant role those natural metaphors play in shaping perceptions of the mother-in-law figure. These metaphors reflect broader cultural values and social attitudes, providing insights into how societies perceive authority, resilience, and relational challenges within the family.
The findings demonstrate that mountains and climate serve as powerful symbols of resilience, severity, and unpredictability, characteristics often attributed to the mother-in-law. In Central Asian cultures, the metaphor of the mother-in-law as a "guardian of the peaks" underscores her role as a protector of family traditions and values, reflecting the cultural emphasis on endurance and stability. In contrast, Eastern European metaphors that depict the mother-in-law as "cold as a winter storm" or "unpredictable as mountain weather" highlight the perceived challenges and tensions associated with her role, emphasizing both her authority and the relational complexities she introduces within the family.
These metaphorical descriptions not only reflect societal attitudes but also influence familial interactions and dynamics. The framing of the mother-in-law through environmental metaphors shapes expectations and behaviors within the family, often reinforcing traditional roles and relational boundaries. By positioning the mother-in-law as a figure akin to a mountain or harsh climate, language perpetuates a narrative of respect mixed with caution, where family members are encouraged to navigate their relationships with her carefully, much like one would approach the formidable natural world.
The study also reveals significant cross-cultural variations in metaphorical usage, demonstrating that while the metaphors of mountains and climate are universally recognized, their specific implications differ according to cultural context. This underscores the importance of understanding local environmental and social influences when interpreting metaphorical language, particularly in multicultural settings where these metaphors may carry diverse meanings.
Overall, this research contributes to a deeper understanding of how natural landscapes and climates are embedded in cultural narratives, shaping and reflecting social perceptions of familial roles. By examining the intersection of language, environment, and social structures, the study
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offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between cultural environments and human relationships. As societies continue to evolve, the metaphors used to describe the mother-in-law may also shift, reflecting changing attitudes towards familial authority, tradition, and the natural world.
Future research could further explore how these metaphors evolve in response to changing environmental conditions and cultural dynamics, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the ongoing relationship between language, culture, and nature. Understanding these metaphorical frameworks can enhance cross-cultural communication and foster more nuanced interpretations of familial roles, ultimately contributing to a richer appreciation of the diverse ways in which human relationships are articulated and understood across the globe.
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Бюллетень науки и практики / Bulletin of Science and Practice https ://www.bulletennauki.ru
Т. 11. №1 2025 https://doi.org/10.33619/2414-2948/110
3. Alieva M., Muratova A. The Depiction of Childhood in English Fairy Tales and Folklore // Бюллетень науки и практики. 2024. Т. 10. №10. С. 419-428. https://doi.org/10.33619/2414-2948/107/55
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10. Sapir E. Language: An Introduction to the Study of Speech. Harcourt, Brace and Company. 1921.
11. Tannen D. You Just Don't Understand: Women and Men in Conversation. William Morrow and Company. 1990.
12. Wierzbicka A. Understanding Cultures Through Their Key Words: English, Russian, Polish, German, and Japanese. Oxford University Press. 1997.
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Работа поступила в редакцию 04.12.2024 г.
Принята к публикации 12.12.2024 г.
Ссылка для цитирования:
Mamat kyzy K. Mountains and Climate as Metaphors in Describing the Mother-in-Law: Linguistic and Cultural Interpretation // Бюллетень науки и практики. 2025. Т. 11. №1. С. 413423. https://doi .org/10.33619/2414-2948/110/49
Cite as (APA):
Mamat kyzy, K. (2025). Mountains and Climate as Metaphors in Describing the Mother-in-Law: Linguistic and Cultural Interpretation. Bulletin of Science and Practice, 11(1), 413-423. https://doi.org/10.33619/2414-2948/110/49
