METAPHORICAL CONCEPTUALIZATION OF THE UNITY (BASED ON THE NATION ADDRESSES OF THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF KAZAKHSTAN KASSYM-JOMART TOKAYEV)

Abstract

This research delves into the intricacies of metaphorical conceptualization, focusing on the linguistic and cognitive dimensions within political discourse, with a specific emphasis on President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's recurring theme of "UNITY" in his Nation Addresses. The study navigates the evolution of metaphor theory from its rhetorical origins to the cognitive approach, particularly within the framework of Lakoff and Johnson. It explores how metaphor, as a cognitive tool, structures abstract concepts and shapes our understanding of the world.

The primary aim is to scrutinize the metaphorical conceptualization of "UNITY" in the Nation Addresses, discerning structural-semantic and functional attributes. The research sheds light on metaphorical models such as "UNITY IS STRENGTH OR POWER," "UNITY IS A SOLID FOUNDATION," and others, unravelling their linguistic expressions and pragmatic significance. The chosen corpus comprises six Nation Addresses, each providing a unique perspective on the President's vision and policy articulation.

The study employs a descriptive methodology, combining contextual analysis and continuous sampling to identify metaphorical expressions linked with the concept of "UNITY." Lingua-cognitive and quantitative analyses unveil coherent metaphorical models, contributing to the theoretical understanding of conceptual metaphor theory. The metaphorical modelling method by Lakoff and Johnson, refined by scholars like Baranov and Fouconnier, is applied to categorize and examine the most frequently utilized metaphorical model, "NATION IS A FAMILY."

Theoretical significance lies in contributing to the field of conceptual metaphor theory, expanding its application to political discourse. The practical significance is evident in unravelling the rhetorical functions of metaphors in shaping political narratives and public opinion. Overall, the research provides insights into the linguistic intricacies of President Tokayev's addresses, offering a nuanced understanding of the metaphorical language employed and its implications for Kazakhstan's political landscape.