Mapping the Semantic Field of Laughter and Crying Idioms in English: A Corpus-Based Analysis

This study conducts a systematic semantic analysis of English idioms related to the emotions of laughter and crying. The primary aim of this research is to map the semantic fields of these idioms by proposing and applying a multi-layered categorization framework that reflects a continuum from direct physiological expression to complex metaphorical conceptualization. To achieve this aim, the study sets out several key tasks: (1) to compile a comprehensive and verified corpus of laughter and crying idioms from authoritative dictionary sources; (2) to develop an analytical framework capable of capturing the nuances of semantic extension; and (3) to categorize the entire corpus using this framework to reveal underlying structural patterns.
A specialized corpus of 310 idioms was compiled from major idiom dictionaries and categorized using a framework with a central “Core” and expanding “Periphery” levels. The methods involved a qualitative, descriptive design in which the categorisation was developed inductively from the data, informed by an initial structure and refined through detailed analysis of dictionary definitions and contextual examples.
The results confirm a hierarchical structure where Core idioms denote direct physiological expressions, Near Periphery idioms express intensity through hyperbole, Mid Periphery idioms incorporate social interactions, and Far Periphery idioms employ metaphor for abstract concepts. A distinct category for 41 emotionally ambiguous idioms was also identified. The discussion interprets these findings through the lens of Cognitive Linguistics, demonstrating how the progression from Core to Far Periphery aligns with the principle that abstract thought is grounded in physical experience. The existence of the Ambiguous/Mixed category underscores language’s capacity to lexicalize complex emotional states.
In conclusion, this study provides a structured model for understanding the lexicalization of basic emotions in figurative language and offers a valuable framework for linguists and language educators.