中西方谚语中时间观念之对比分析

中西方谚语中时间观念之对比分析

A Contrastive Analysis of Time Concept in Chinese and Western

Proverbs

Acknowledgements

This thesis has taken me almost two years to turn it from conception to the final completion. It is a work of joint efforts from many people. So I especially wish to extend my gratitude for the following people.

Firstly, I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to my supervisor Professor Meng li for her patient and constructive instructions on my thesis writing. I have got more inspiration and motivation to accomplish this study. I can deeply touched by her responsibility.

Secondly, I would like to thank my dear classmates and roommates. They helped me so much by giving me useful suggestions and encourage me when I was in trouble and in confusion. Without their concern and companion, I cannot finish my paper smoothly. I benefit a lot from our daily communication.

All in all, thanks all the people who offer me selfless support. Your kindness would be remembered forever.

Abstract

Different cultural backgrounds shape people's different concepts of time. Due to the differences of Chinese and Western cultural traditions, people's time concepts are different. This article briefly introduces the differences in time concepts between Chinese and Western proverbs, including time and money, opportunities, changes and speed, and explains the reasons for the different time concepts from three aspects: total culture, history and society. The study of Chinese and Western languages and intercultural communication play a guiding role.

Key words: American proverbs; Chinese proverbs; time concept