Simile and Metaphor Structures in Relation to Young Iraqi Peoples Language
Ali Sabah Al-Khayyat, University of Anbar (Iraq)
Abstract
Since Aristotle, scholars have regarded similes and metaphors as equivalent figures of speech sharing very similar comprehension, interpretation and usage patterns. By analysing the use of similes in real discourse, the aim of this study is to measuring the Iraqi university students’ awareness of the simile and metaphor idioms they use in daily life. Also, Revealing the differences between male and female students’ utilizing the simile and metaphor techniques in their daily life. The participants of the study were from Baghdad university and Anbar university, the total number was 240 students (120 males and 120 females). The researcher used an open question to collect the data of the study. The results reveal that the Iraqi students are not aware of the meaning and the sources of the simile and metaphor idioms, but they use them in correct manner and place. Also, the boys use simile and metaphor idioms more than the girls do.
Keywords: simile, metaphor, awareness, Iraqi university students;