Keywords
How to Cite
Abstract
This article explores the historical evolution of "idioms of life" within the English language, tracing their origins, development, and semantic shifts from Old English to contemporary usage. By analyzing a corpus of key idioms related to human existence, experience, and destiny, this study investigates how societal changes, cultural influences, and linguistic innovations have shaped their forms and meanings over centuries. The research highlights the dynamic nature of idiomatic expressions as reflections of evolving worldview and provides insights into the enduring power of language to encapsulate universal human experiences.
References
1. Baugh, A. C., & Cable, T. (2002). A history of the English language. Prentice Hall.
2. Fowler, H. W. (2004). Fowler's Modern English Usage. Oxford University Press.
3. Jackson, H. (1988). Words and their meanings. Longman.
4. McArthur, T. (Ed.). (1992). The Oxford Companion to the English Language. Oxford University Press.
5. Middle English Dictionary. (n.d.). University of Michigan Library. Retrieved from https://www.gymglish.com/en/gymglish/english-translation/if-applicable
6. Online Etymology Dictionary. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.gymglish.com/en/gymglish/english-translation/if-applicable
7. Oxford English Dictionary. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.gymglish.com/en/gymglish/english-translation/if-applicable
8. Skeat, W. W. (1910). An etymological dictionary of the English language. Clarendon Press.
9. Traugott, E. C., & Dasher, R. B. (2002). Regularity in semantic change. Cambridge University Press.
10. Various literary texts from different periods (e.g., specific editions of Beowulf, Chaucer's Canterbury Tales, Shakespeare's plays, King James Bible).
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.