Phraseological units as a reflection of the culture and mentality of the people

Abstract

This article explores the role of phraseological units in reflecting the culture and mentality of an ethnic group. The study analyzes linguistic, cultural, and cognitive aspects of phraseological expressions. Russian and Uzbek phraseological units were compared, revealing their semantic, pragmatic, and cultural characteristics. The results show that phraseological units are not only a means of linguistic expression but also reflect historical experience, moral values, and national mentality. The examples illustrate how archaic meanings coexist with modern metaphorical interpretations and how phraseological units are intertwined with culture and collective mentality. The comparative approach helped identify universal and national features, emphasizing the importance of phraseological units in language teaching and translation practice. This research contributes to a deeper understanding of the interrelation between language, culture, and the mentality of the people.