Bridging Cultures: Exploring the Role of Persian Proverbs and German Idioms in Language Acquisition and Intercultural Communication
Elham Arezoofar
1
(
Department of German Language Education, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad, University, Tehran, Iran
)
Parastoo Panjehshahi
2
(
Department of German Language Education, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
)
Armin Fazelzad
3
(
Department of German Language Education, Central Tehran Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran
)
Keywords: idioms, proverbs, German language learning, intercultural communication, language teaching, cultural competence,
Abstract :
This research discusses the pedagogical relevance of German idioms and Persian proverbs in language acquisition and intercultural communication. Idioms and proverbs are extremely useful in language competence and culture awareness development, but they are also very challenging for learners due to their non-literal nature and cultural boundness. This study uses a qualitative design to investigate how the use of idiomatic language in real communicative contexts improves comprehension, memorability, and intercultural competence in German language learners. Data were gathered based on semi-structured interviews with experienced teachers and advanced learners, and content analysis of idiomatic language selected from German and Persian texts. The findings show that the integration of cognitive and sociolinguistic approaches optimizes learners' ability to interpret idiomatic meaning and use them appropriately. Besides, computer-mediated resources and multimedia technology support memorization of idioms and their application in context. The instructional model in the research, by incorporating metaphorical comprehension with cultural contextualization, addresses knowledge gaps in traditional idiom instruction and emphasizes the necessity for contextualized learning environments. By enhancing both cultural sensitivity and language proficiency, this research has valuable pedagogical implications for language teachers and curriculum planners. Follow-up research should investigate the application of technology-assisted idiom learning in various linguistic and cultural contexts to validate the usefulness of the model suggested.
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