The emotive component in the semantics of English idioms (based on the short stories of W. S. Maugham)

This article examines the emotive component in the semantics of English idioms in the short stories of William Somerset Maugham. The subject of analysis is the emotional connotation of idioms and their role in creating artistic effect. The aim of the study is, first, to identify the features of the emotive component in idiomatic semantics and, second, to determine its functions. These functions include conveying characters' emotions and thematically deepening the text. The analysis focuses particularly on how idiomatic expressions shape the psychological characterization, create atmosphere, and actualize the cultural context within Maugham's style. The study is based on fundamental theories of emotiveness (V.I. Shakhovsky, V.A. Maslova) and K. Izard's theory of differential emotions. A detailed analysis of key idioms is conducted using short stories. The study employs a comprehensive methodology combining semantic, contextual, and stylistic analysis. Elements of cognitive linguistics are applied to explore the emotive connotation of idioms in depth, allowing us to analyze the relationship between the figurative basis of an expression and its emotional impact. This study contributes to the field by providing a systematic analysis of the emotive potential of idioms in Maugham's stories using a comprehensive approach, combining cognitive linguistics, semantic, and stylistic analysis. The study demonstrates how Maugham uses idioms to convey subtle psychological nuances, irony, and key plot twists. The findings reveal that idioms in Maugham's stories not only convey characters' emotions but also act as a crucial mechanism for the plot development, psychological characterization, and creation of a unique atmosphere. The findings have practical value for literary analysis and English literature teaching methods. The emotive component plays a key role in enhancing the textual expressiveness, ensuring a deeper emotional perception by the reader.