SEMANTIC FEATURES OF IDIOMS IN CONTEMPORARY LINGUISTICS

Abstract

This thesis investigates the semantic features of idioms as stable and culturally marked linguistic units in contemporary English. Idioms are examined as complex semantic structures characterized by figurative meaning, semantic indivisibility, emotional-expressive coloring, and national-cultural specificity. The research emphasizes the role of idioms in shaping linguistic worldview and reflecting collective cultural experience. Particular attention is given to semantic classification of idioms, their cognitive foundations, and the difficulties they present in translation and intercultural communication. Understanding idiomatic semantics is essential for effective language teaching, translation practice, and cross-cultural interaction in the modern globalized world.