Lexical Representation of the Concept «Горе/tongku» in Russian and Chinese Languages

Yan Tszy Postgraduate Student; Department of Theory and Practice of Foreign Languages; Peoples’ Friendship University of Russia named after Patrice Lumumba Miklukho-Maklaya str., 9, Moscow, 117198, Russia 1042235158@pfur.ru

The relevance of the work is determined by the need to identify similarities and differences in the lexical expression of emotional concepts in two languages, which contributes to the deepening of knowledge about intercultural communications and the specifics of the emotional worldview of the Russian and Chinese languages.

The purpose of the work is to compare the lexical expression of the concepts "grief" in Russian and "痛苦" in Chinese to identify their common and distinctive features.

To achieve this goal, it is necessary to solve the following tasks::

1. Analyze the dictionary definitions of the concepts "grief" and "痛苦" in Russian and Chinese.

2. Explore the semantic fields associated with these concepts and identify key vocabulary.

3. Compare the ways of expressing emotions related to concepts in terms of their intensity and emotional sources.

4. To identify the cultural and linguistic specifics of the lexical design of concepts.

The object of the research is the concepts of "grief" and "痛苦" in Russian and Chinese.

The subject of the research is the semantics and lexical representation of the concepts "grief" in Russian and "痛苦" in Chinese.

The novelty of the research lies in the comparative analysis of emotional concepts in terms of their lexico-semantic expression in two languages, which allows us to identify cultural and linguistic specifics.

In modern linguistics, the study of emotions is an important area of research, as V. I. Shakhovsky notes, "emotions are one of the forms of reflection of the world"^{[12, p. 24]}, emotions are not only a universal part of human experience, but also a key element reflecting the specifics of cultures and languages. Research on emotional concepts is usually conducted at the intersection of several linguistic theories, which makes this approach multifaceted and complex.

The theoretical basis of this work is based on the following approaches:

1. Theory of concepts. "A concept is, as it were, a bundle of culture in a person's mind; that in which culture enters the mental world of a person"^{[9, p. 40]}. The concept is considered as a complex mental structure that includes both linguistic and cultural elements. The concept of "grief" in Russian and "痛苦" in Chinese is interpreted as part of an emotional picture of the world, representing experiences of negative emotions.

2. Semantic analysis. Considering the topic of concepts, "one cannot help but notice that it is literally permeated with semantically saturated elements, the analysis of which seems extremely important" ^{[6, p. 66]}. This approach helps to explore the meaning of a concept and lexical units representing emotions in a language, as well as their relationship to the cultural context.

3. Intercultural communication is "the exchange of information carried out by native speakers of different cultures"^{[2, p. 8]}, being one of the approaches to studying how cultural and linguistic differences in the expression of emotions affect interlanguage and intercultural interaction.

At the intersection of these theories, the work explores how the concepts of "grief" and "痛苦" are lexically expressed in Russian and Chinese, which aspects reflect their emotional nature, and how they relate to the cultural and linguistic context.

The concepts of "grief" and "痛苦" are of particular interest for comparative analysis, since they are at the center of the emotional picture of the world of the two languages. However, their lexico-semantic expression shows significant differences due to different cultural traditions, perception of emotions and ways of their verbalization.

According to Kudinova E. A., "the core of a concept is best reflected by the semantics of a keyword (lexeme) having a concept"^{[4, p. 49]}. And O. M. Burakova believes that "the linguistic representation of a concept can be studied by analyzing the corresponding semantic field" ^{[1, p. 88]}. So, in order to accomplish the above tasks and in-depth analysis of the concepts of "grief" and "痛苦", it is necessary to refer to their dictionary definitions and semantic fields. Then, within the framework of the study, related lexical expressions will be analyzed, which can be roughly divided into three categories: by the source of emotions, by the degree of their intensity and by the method of expression. This approach will help identify similarities and differences in the presentation of these concepts in Russian and Chinese.

Ⅰ. Semantic comparison of the concepts "grief" and "痛苦"

When studying cultural concepts, researchers inevitably turn to lexicographic sources ^{[5, p. 74]}. This part presents a semantic analysis of the concepts of "grief" in Russian and "痛苦" in Chinese, based on a comparison of dictionary definitions and semantic fields.

Dictionary definitions and semantic field of the concept "grief" in Russian

According to Ozhegov's Explanatory Dictionary, the concept of "grief" has the following basic meanings: "1) Sorrow, deep sadness, for example: to get sick from grief; 2) Misfortune, for example: great grief happened; 3) In combination with other words, "grief" is used to mean something bad, inept For example: would-be fisherman, would-be business executive, would-be leader"^[11].

The semantic field of the concept "grief" can be viewed through synonymous rows, which allows for a deeper understanding of its semantic structure and cultural significance.:

The concept of "grief" is included in a wide range of words that are close in meaning, which reveal different aspects of its semantics.:

- "sadness, sorrow, suffering"^[3] — focus on the emotional side of grief, emphasizing the inner experience of loss or pain.

- "misfortune, disaster, tragedy"^[3] — focuses on the external circumstances associated with grief, especially if it is caused by events beyond a person's control.

- "bitterness, anguish, loss"^[3] — add an individual or even metaphorical connotation, indicating the consequences or understanding of the situation.

Based on dictionary definitions and semantic analysis, it can be concluded that the concept of "grief" in Russian covers a wide range of meanings related to emotional, social and cultural aspects of human experience. On the one hand, it indicates the depth of personal experiences related to loss and unhappiness, on the other hand, it is used as a means of evaluation in an ironic or metaphorical context. Thus, "grief" is a multifaceted and significant element of the linguistic worldview, reflecting the values, worldview and mentality of Russian culture.

Dictionary definitions and semantic field of the concept "痛苦" in Chinese

According to "新华词典" ("Xinhua Dictionary"), the concept of "痛苦" has the following meanings: 1) 身体或精神感到非常难受 (Feeling of severe physical or psychological suffering); 2) 使身体或精神感到非常难受的事 (a Situation or event that causes suffering); 3) 疼痛苦楚 (a term that describes the pain and suffering); 4) 犹沉痛，深刻 (Deep and strong feelings of grief or sadness)^[8].

We will also consider the semantic field "痛苦" through synonymous series, which allows us to reveal its complex structure and a variety of shades of meaning.:

The concept of "痛苦" encompasses a wide range of emotionally and physically significant words that convey various aspects of the emotion of "痛苦":

- "悲伤 (sadness), 哀痛 (sorrow), 伤心 (broken heart)"^[13] — indicate the emotional experience of losses and losses associated with mental pain and grief.

- "痛楚 (suffering), 折磨 (torment), 煎熬 (severe trials)"^[13] — focus on physical or psychological pain, conveying a state in which a person is faced with insurmountable discomfort.

- "苦难 (difficulties), 不幸 (unhappiness), 困境 (difficult situation)"^[13] — emphasize the external circumstances that cause suffering, including life difficulties, misfortunes or crisis situations.

- "悲哀 (bitterness), 酸楚 (bitterness), 绝望 (despair)"^[13] — reflect a person's subjective perception of tragic events related to pain or loss.

The study of dictionary definitions and semantic fields shows that the concept of "痛苦" is a complex and multifaceted phenomenon, encompassing both internal emotional experiences and external events leading to physical or psychological pain. He reveals both the individual aspect of suffering and its universal nature, which makes "痛苦" an important part of the Chinese linguistic worldview. In language, he expresses not only a subjective sense of pain and loss, but also a philosophical understanding of life's difficulties, reflecting cultural values and worldview.

Thus, the conducted research has shown that the concepts of "grief" and "痛苦" have both similarities and differences due to cultural and linguistic traditions. Both concepts are associated with deep suffering and emotions, however, "grief" in Russian more often emphasizes emotional and tragic loss, while "痛苦" in Chinese covers both emotional and physical suffering, emphasizing their universality. These differences reflect the specifics of national mentalities and worldviews. In the next part, an in-depth analysis of related lexical expressions will be conducted, taking into account their emotional sources, intensity and modes of expression.

Ⅱ. Lexical expressions related to "grief" and "痛苦"

In this part, special attention is paid to the comparison of lexical units related to the concepts of "grief" and "痛苦" in Russian and Chinese. We classify these lexical expressions into three main categories.: 1. sources of emotions; 2. intensity of emotions; 3. ways of expressing emotions.

1. Sources of emotions

Based on the dictionary definitions associated with the concept of "grief", the following typical sources of emotions are distinguished in the Russian language:

Loss:

- "loss, death, separation" ^[7] — are associated with deep personal experiences caused by the loss of loved ones or the severance of important ties.

The misfortune:

- "disaster, failure, catastrophe"^[7] — denote external events that destroy the usual order of life and cause grief.

Suffering:

- "poverty, sorrows, need"^[7] — describe social and material problems that create long-term states of suffering.

And in Chinese, according to the definitions of the word "痛苦", there are such sources of emotions:

Physical pain:

- "疼痛 (pain)"^[10] — reflects the physical sensations that cause suffering.

- "疾病 (illness)"^[10] — describes a condition associated with a health disorder.

- "创伤 (injury)"^[10] — indicates physical injuries that cause pain.

Psychological pain:

- "悲伤 (sadness)"^[10] — describes deep emotional pain.

- "抑郁 (depression)"^[10] — focuses on the state of depression.

- "失落 (loss)"^[10] — reflects the feeling of losing something important.

Life's difficulties:

- "失败 (failure)"^[10] — highlights the difficulties associated with losing goals.

- "困难 (difficulties)"^[10] — indicates problems and obstacles in life.

- "挫折 (defeats)"^[10] — describes conditions associated with obstacles or frustration.

Based on the above, the Russian concept of "grief" mainly focuses on tragic loss or external disaster, while the Chinese concept of "痛苦" covers not only emotional and physical pain, but also a wider range of life difficulties. These differences highlight the different aspects of the perception of suffering in Russian and Chinese cultures.

2. Intensity of emotions

The following words are often used in Russian to express the varying intensity of emotions associated with "grief.":

Low intensity:

- "sadness, sadness, longing"^[7] — denote mild but prolonged emotional experiences associated with a lack of joy or a slight loss.

Average intensity:

- "grief, bitterness, bitterness"^[7] — convey deeper feelings caused by significant losses or unpleasant events.

High intensity:

- "hopelessness, despair, horror"^[7] — reflect the extreme forms of emotional state associated with the inability to cope with tragic circumstances.

In Chinese, the intensity of emotions associated with "痛苦" is also divided into three levels:

Low intensity:

- "难受 (unpleasant feeling)"^[10] — conveys mild discomfort, both physical and emotional.

- "悲观 (pessimism)"^[10] — reflects a slight feeling of sadness and loss of faith in the best.

- "忧伤 (sadness)"^[10] — indicates mild emotional pain caused by loss.

Average intensity:

- "苦痛 (torment)"^[10] — indicates moderate emotional or physical pain.

- "郁闷 (oppression)"^[10] — describes a depressed state caused by difficulties or lack of an exit.

- "煎熬 (suffering, torment)"^[10] — focuses on long and painful experiences.

High intensity:

- "极痛 (extreme pain)"^[10] — emphasizes the intensity of physical or psychological pain.

- "绝望 (despair)"^[10] — conveys a state of complete loss of hope.

- "哀恸 (deep sorrow)"^[10] — describes a strong experience associated with a tragic loss.

As mentioned above, the Russian concept of "grief" emphasizes the emotional side of suffering, especially related to loss, and differs in a specific gradation of the intensity of experiences. The Chinese concept of "痛苦" is broader, including both the physical and psychological aspects of pain, and divides emotional states in more detail according to their severity, which emphasizes a more structured approach to describing experiences.

3. Ways of expressing emotions

In Russian, the ways of expressing emotions related to "grief" can be divided into several categories:

Physical manifestations — emotions associated with "grief" are often accompanied by bodily reactions:

- "Crying" ^[7] is a natural reaction to loss, allowing you to reduce emotional stress.

- "Sobbing"^[7] is an intense expression of grief, often accompanied by deep sobs.

- "Groan"^[7] — expresses depression and suffering, often without words.

Verbal reactions — The Russian language is characterized by a rich range of verbal expressions of emotions:

- "Complaints"^[7] — convey feelings of resentment, disappointment, or powerlessness.

- "Curses"^[7] — reflect a violent reaction to circumstances or their cause.

- "Screams"^[7] — loud, emotionally charged screams indicating extreme pain.

Behavioral manifestations — the behavior of a person experiencing grief can change dramatically:

- "Solitude" ^[7] — the desire to distance oneself from others and be alone with oneself.

- "Fading" ^[7] is a state of emotional immobility caused by severe shock.

- "Inaction" ^[7] — loss of motivation for any action associated with internal devastation.

In Chinese, the ways of expressing emotions related to "痛苦" are also divided into three categories:

Physical manifestations:

- "哭泣 (crying)"^[10] — expresses mild or moderate emotional pain.

- "抽泣 (sobbing)"^[10] — reflects a deeper and more lasting experience.

- "叹息 (sigh)"^[10] — symbolizes a feeling of hopelessness or depression.

Verbal reactions:

- "抱怨 (complain)"^[10] — verbal expressions of discontent or pain.

- "呼喊 (shout)"^[10] — loud and expressive manifestation of severe pain.

- "诉苦 (complaining about difficulties)"^[10] — a frank account of their sufferings in order to find understanding or support.

Behavioral manifestations:

- "沉默 (silence)"^[10] — unwillingness to share your feelings caused by inner suffering.

- "孤立 (isolation)"^[10] — avoidance of social contacts and the desire to be alone.

- "自 ( (closeness)"^[10] — an extreme form of social isolation caused by severe mental pain.

To summarize the above, Russian and Chinese emphasize both the physical and behavioral aspects of expressing emotions. However, in Russian, the emphasis is on the intensity of experiences through shouting and cursing, while in Chinese there is a greater emphasis on social aspects such as silence and isolation.

Table 1 summarizes the typical lexical expressions associated with "grief" and "痛苦".

Table 1. Typical lexical expressions associated with "grief" and "痛苦"

Conclusion

The conducted research revealed a deep relationship between language and culture in the process of lexical design of the concepts of "grief" and "痛苦". Using the example of two languages, Russian and Chinese, it became obvious that language not only captures universal human experiences, but also forms ways of their perception and expression, determined by cultural and historical conditions.

The concepts of "grief" and "痛苦" demonstrate how different cultures interpret the phenomenon of suffering. In Russian, "grief" is often considered as a separate, isolated condition associated with fateful changes and tragic events. In Chinese, "痛苦", on the contrary, is a more multifaceted concept that encompasses a wide range of negative emotions and physical sensations. This difference highlights the importance of language as a tool for structuring and making sense of human experience.

In addition, the study revealed a significant influence of cultural norms and philosophical traditions on the ways of expressing emotions. Russian is dominated by an emphasis on emotional openness and intensity, while Chinese reflects a desire for inner balance and social harmony. This distinction highlights the importance of cross-cultural understanding in the study of emotional vocabulary.

This study contributes to the study of intercultural semantics and provides grounds for further analysis of other emotional concepts. The results obtained emphasize the importance of comparative research for understanding the universal and specific in human experiences, which is of great importance both for linguistic theory and for practical fields, including intercultural communication, translation studies and foreign language teaching.