A Cognitive Analysis of English and Uzbek Proverbs With Animal Concept

In this paper, the role of generic cognitive mechanisms in language structure and usage is analysed by conducting an analysis of proverbs in both English and Uzbek. A framework for understanding proverb cognition based on universal principles is provided, presenting an alternative perspective to that of Lakoff & Turner (1989) and aligning with Ruiz de Mendoza who proposes a more economical and motivated conceptual model. Additionally, utilizing a corpus of study, a comparative cognitive and sociolinguistic analysis is conducted between English and Uzbek proverbs. This analysis reveals a shared underlying cognitive schema among proverbs, while also demonstrating the reflection of distinct cultural beliefs. Consequently, proverbs offer a valuable resource for examining how we process experiences and conceptualize the world. The conclusion drawn is that proverbs represent a conceptual universal phenomenon with significant communicative and cross-cultural relevance.