Fixed expressions as linguocultural units

This article examines phraseology from a linguocultural perspective. The study indicates that certain fixed expressions, in addition to fulfilling naming functions, take the role of cultural entities, i. e., phraseological units become cultural signs. Linguocultural signs reflect a naive interpretation of reality; they are preserved by cultural memory. The characterisation of cultural signs is based on the functional criterion, which enables symbols, standards, measures, and charms to be identified in their diversity. Fixed expressions that assume a particular cultural function are transformed into corresponding verbal cultural signs. This article outlines their main characteristics. Linguocultural symbols are cultural signs expressing ideas and shaping human cultural practices. Linguocultural standards are cultural signs which provide insights into the norms and standards of reality, as well as into positive and negative deviations from them. Linguocultural measures are cultural signs used by linguistic consciousness to parametrise reality. Linguocultural charms are cultural signs necessary to protect a person from the negative influences of the surrounding world. These units embody taboos that a person must avoid not to find themselves in a bad situation. The article concludes that the analysis of linguocultural sign semantics can be based on cognitive operators included in the scenarios describing meaning. Understanding the semantics of verbal cultural signs expressed by phraseological units ensures mastery of the cultural code. Their inclusion in an individual’s cultural experience is possible through textual activity. Examining fixed expressions from a linguocultural perspective will enable a better understanding of their cultural functions.

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