THE METAPHOR OF CEDRUS TREE, BAMBOO TREE, OCHNA TREE IN CHINESE AND VIETNAMESE

Abstract

Cedrus tree, bamboo tree, and ochna tree, which are typical in China and Vietnam are used in metaphors to give the reader a better idea of people’s characteristics, and convey a thought more vividly, especially in composing literature. Cedrus tree, bamboo tree, and ochna tree are considered as three friends staying together in winter. When other plants die out, these 3 trees are still green. Therefore, these trees are compared to several respectful human characteristics. Metaphors related to cedrus tree, bamboo tree, and ochna tree in Chinese and Vietnamese share similarities and differences associated with the cognition and imagination of two nations. The article focuses on analyzing the metaphor of cedrus tree, bamboo tree, and ochna tree in Chinese and Vietnamese, highlights their features and roles in literature, and contributes as a reference to teaching and studying Chinese - Vietnamese language and culture.