Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1, 198-211 2025 Publisher: Learning Gate DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate © 2024 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate History: Received: 14 November 2024; Revised: 13 December 2024; Accepted: 1 January 2025; Published: 6 January 2025 * Correspondence: hqp2000@gmail.com Parallelism of syntax and semantics in English - Vietnamese proverbs Hang Thu Pham1, Quynh Thi Huong Pham2* 1Faculty of Sociology, Humanities & Communications, Tay Do University, Can Tho, Vietnam. 2Institute of Linguistics, Vietnam Academy of Social Sciences, Hanoi, Vietnam; hqp2000@gmail.com (Q.T.H.P.). Abstract: Parallelism is a fairly typical rhetorical device in proverbs. This type of structure is effective in expressing content as well as creating artistic effects for proverbs. This article aims to understand the parallelism in English proverbs and Vietnamese proverbs on both aspects of semantic parallelism and syntactic parallelism. Through the survey, semantic parallelism is considered on three aspects: similarity relationship, contrast relationship, inter-causal/ dependence relationship; Syntactic parallelism is considered in eight aspects: lexical repetition, preposition/prepositional phrase repetition, noun/noun phrase repetition, adjective/adjective phrase repetition, verb/verb phrase repetition words, predicate repetition, clause repetition, complex sentence repetition. Discovering the structure of semantic parallelism and syntactic parallelism in English and Vietnamese proverbs helps to better understand the cultural identity of each nation. Keywords: English proverbs, National culture, Parallel structure, Proverbs, Vietnamese proverbs. 1. Introduction Parallelism is a way of organizing language to express an information content. This method appears quite a lot in proverbs, because proverbs are rhyming and rhythmic sayings that summarize a life experience or convey a life lesson. Because it is transmitted by word of mouth, the parallelism is often easy to memorize and remember. This article aims to survey parallelism in both semantic and syntactic aspects in Vietnamese and English proverbs. The goal of this research is to analyze the similarities in the way proverbs are created, thereby highlighting the unique cultural beauty of each country. The research does not stop at the semantic aspect but also goes into the construction of syntactic structure in proverbs. An important highlight of the research is the ability to discover unique cultural characteristics, thereby preserving and promoting humanity's precious intangible cultural heritage. This research will contribute to building bridges and promoting understanding between different communities. This helps us realize the cultural and traditional value that proverbs bring, while affirming its position in modern social life. Researching and understanding proverbs not only helps us connect with the past but also work towards a sustainable future for future generations. 2. Theoretical Review 2.1. Proverbs Proverbs, a foundational text in biblical wisdom literature, offers insights into practical reasoning and socio-logic [1]. The book of Proverbs comprises various collections of individual proverbs, instructions, and poems, potentially originating from royal courts, wisdom schools, and popular culture [2]. Its content reflects rational principles found in argumentation, including argument typology, inference rules, and fallacy cautions [1]. Scholars argue that Proverbs had a theological purpose from its inception, with God's creativity as a central theme [2]. The text also echoes other Old Testament genres like prophecy, law, and cult [2]. Proverbs 1-9, in particular, has been subject to in-depth 199 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate analysis, exploring its place in ancient Israel's intellectual history and its connections to other ancient Near Eastern wisdom literature [3]. This section of Proverbs introduces the concept of personified wisdom and addresses fundamental questions about wisdom's nature and origins [3]. According to Vu Ngoc Phan: "A proverb is a sentence that completely expresses an idea, an observation, an experience, a morality, a justice, sometimes a criticism" [19:39]. According to Bui Manh Nhi: "Proverbs [proverbs: long-standing habits, recognized by everyone] are folk sayings that are short, stable, have rhythm, images and often carry many meaning, expressing the people's experiences in all aspects, applied by the people to their daily lives, thinking and speech. This is a genre of folk literature" [2:254]. According to Hoang Tien Tuu: "Proverbs are a genre of folk literature aimed at summarizing experience and knowledge, stating comments, judgments, and advice of the people in the form of short, simple sayings. Simple, concise, rhythmic, easy to remember, easy to transmit [9:109]. Proverbs are not simply sayings but also a means of conveying culture, education and valuable lessons in life. everyday life. With short and concise expressions Legends and proverbs reflect the sophistication and depth of human thinking about the world around them. In The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs "Proverb is a traditional saying which offers advice or presents a moral in a short and pithy manner." [10:xii]. According to the Oxford Dictionary of Phrases and Fables, proverbs are not only advice but also contain general truths about life. They often use metaphor or emphasis to convey experience and wisdom accumulated over many generations. These sayings help connect people through shared values, while reflecting the rich experiences that many generations have shared. Culturally, proverbs play an essential role in building and preserving community identity. They are passed down from generation to generation, creating a rich treasure of knowledge about life. Proverbs not only help people better understand the rules and values of life, but also enrich everyday communication language. From this perspective, proverbs become an indispensable part of communication culture, helping people perceive and express themselves, and better understand the world around them. Proverbs represent general understandings, often of a universal nature, and provide useful advice for everyone in life. The appearance of proverbs in communication not only creates closeness but also affirms the wisdom and life experiences of people who have gone through similar situations. By using easy-to-understand sayings and proverbs, people can easily access and apply them into practice. Furthermore, proverbs also include satire and social criticism. Thanks to these short but powerful sayings, they not only encourage but also remind people of the things to avoid in life. Thereby, proverbs not only have positive meanings but can also reflect negative points, contributing to awakening social awareness. Finally, proverbs are like precious gems, each containing a valuable lesson, a life experience. We can gain a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world through these proverbs. They are not only cultural heritage but also a bridge between the past and present, contributing to the formation of national cultural identity in the context of modern society. 2.2. Parallelism Parallelism is a prominent feature in proverbs across languages. In English proverbs, parallelism and antithesis are common syntactic characteristics [4]. This structural element is also evident in Abigbo music from Nigeria, where parallelism contributes to the aesthetic quality and confidential information dissemination [5]. Antithetic parallelism, in particular, is frequently used in the book of Proverbs, possibly due to its effectiveness in expressing motivational concepts through an approach/avoidance framework [6]. The structure of proverbs extends beyond individual sentences to the organization of entire collections. For instance, the book of Proverbs in the Bible may have a five- part structure, mirroring the Pentateuch's division [7]. These structural elements in proverbs serve various purposes, including enhancing memorability, conveying complex ideas concisely, and facilitating cross-cultural comparisons, as seen in the contrasts between English and Korean proverbs [4]. English proverbs exhibit distinct structural and semantic characteristics that contribute to their memorability and effectiveness. Syntactically, they often feature linking verbs, deictic verbs, and imperative sentences, as well as employ antithesis and parallelism [4]. Semantically, proverbs utilize 200 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate ambiguous, symbolic, and metaphoric language, frequently incorporating personification [4]. Many proverbs follow specific formulaic patterns, such as "No X no Y" or "Better be X than Y," which enhance their catchiness and facilitate the creation of new proverbs based on existing structures [8]. Comparative analyses of proverbs across languages reveal differences in word order and semantic structures [4, 9]. The study of proverbs' syntactic structures is crucial for understanding their role in language and culture. Proverbs serve as carriers of aphoristic wisdom, filling gaps in lexical systems and contributing to the expansion of vocabulary and idiomatic speech. Vietnamese proverbs and parallelism exhibit unique linguistic and cultural features. Contrastive parallel-structured sentences, originating from China, employ concise linguistic units in opposing propositions [10]. Vietnamese paroemias reflect the country's agrarian status, patriarchal lifestyle, and rural traditions, emphasizing concepts like resilience, diligence, and collectivism. While Google Translate can render English proverbs into acceptable Vietnamese structures, it often fails to convey their intended meaning [10]. Vietnamese proverbs, dating back thousands of years, offer valuable insights into the nation's culture, behaviors, and values. Parallelism is an effective method of communication, especially in conveying ideas through proverbs. Not only does it make the message rich and engaging, but it also encourages critical thinking, helping listeners think more deeply about the ideas presented. When using this structure, listeners have the opportunity to compare and contrast the components in the sentence, thereby drawing their own lessons or principles, expanding their ability to analyze and think. According to the definition of Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary "Parallelism is the state of being similar; a similar feature"[10: 1099]. Furthermore, the parallelism clearly shows the logical relationship between ideas, helping listeners easily recognize the common point and the deep meaning that the author wants to convey. This not only allows listeners to focus on each opinion, but also helps them see the overall message the author is sending. Thanks to that, listeners can better understand the values and life lessons expressed through proverbs. In particular, parallelism also has the ability to evoke emotions and connect with listeners. It often conveys common human experiences, arousing empathy and understanding. Integrating emotions into expression not only makes the message more profound but also strengthens the connection between speaker and listener. This harmony creates a friendly and warm communication space, making it easy for listeners to receive and remember the message. In short, parallelism is not simply a linguistic tool but also a powerful method to increase communication and educational effectiveness in folk culture. The combination of logic and emotion in this structure helps enhance the quality of speech, conveying valuable lessons about life. Listeners are not only provided with information but also have the opportunity to experience and feel more deeply about the cultural values that the author wants to share. Parallelism is indeed an important element in developing thinking and understanding within the community. 3. Research Methods and Materials 3.1. Research Methods Regarding research methods, to carry out this research, we implemented the following research methods: The first is the descriptive method, this method is used to describe the concept of proverbs and the characteristics of parallelism in proverbs. Describe types of parallelism in terms of both semantic parallelism and syntactic parallelism. The second is the quantitative method, which is used to statistically analyze parallel aspects of semantics and syntax. The statistics of these parallel aspects will indicate typical types of parallelism and serve as a basis for analysis. Third is the qualitative research method, which allows us to analyze the content and explore the meaning and context of selected proverbs. Through this research, we want to highlight the role of proverbs in preserving and promoting national cultural identity. The research process is conducted through the following steps: 201 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate Step 1: Read Vietnamese and English proverbs Step 2: Select and classify proverbs using semantic parallelism and syntactic parallelism. Step 3: Make statistics and calculate the ratio for each parallel aspect found. Step 4: Analyze each aspect in parallel, taking specific examples from the proverbs surveyed. 3.2. Research Materials The source of survey material is proverb compilations by reputable publishers. For English proverbs, the constructions used for survey are: "Dictionary of world proverbs" by Gerd De Ley, Labor Publishing House, 2005 "Dictionary of English and French Vietnamese proverbs, idioms, and sayings" by Le Ngoc Tu, Social Sciences Publishing House, Hanoi, 1999 "The Concise Oxford Dictionary of Proverbs", by John Simpson, Oxford University Press, [1992] The total number of English proverbs surveyed is 2,050 For Vietnamese proverbs, the works used for survey are: "Vietnamese proverbs" by author group Chu Xuan Dien, Social Science Publishing House, 1998 "Proverbs and folk songs of Vietnam" by Vu Ngoc Phan, Ho Chi Minh City General Publishing House, 2021 The total number of Vietnamese proverbs surveyed is 2,150. 4. Findings and Discussion 4.1. Semantic Parallelism 4.1.1. Survey Results Parallelism in proverbs is the use of phrases or clauses with similar content to emphasize a common message. This presentation effectively reinforces important ideas, creating balance and brevity between parts of the sentence. Table 1. Aspects of semantic parallelism. Aspects Vietnamese proverbs English proverbs Total Similar relationship 150 [49%] 155 [51%] 305 Contrast relationship 165 [49%] 167 [51%] 332 Dependent relationship or cause and effect relationship 126 [51%] 121 [49%] 247 Through the survey, semantic similarity is shown in three aspects: similarity relationship, contrast relationship, and inter-causal/ dependence relationship. In terms of the number of proverbs, there is almost no difference. In fact, these aspects of association all represent the logical association of thinking and are all folk wisdom. 4.1.2. Aspects of Semantic Parallelism * Similar relationship Similar relationships in English proverbs Similar relationship is a rhetorical device in which similar ideas are expressed using different words in a pair of sentences or series of sentences. This method not only enhances the power of the theme but also creates rhythm, enhancing the reading experience for the reader. This type of connection is often structured in a symmetrical form, with the first part emphasizing a self-evident truth, while the second part introducing a new aspect. This presentation helps convey a deeper message. In English, the proverb "Courage is the measure of a Man, Beauty is the measure of a Woman" shows a clear symmetrical structure. The two sides of the sentence bring balance and harmony to the words, creating a memorable rhythm. The first refers to men with courageous qualities, while the second 202 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate highlights beauty as an indicator for women. The parallelism between the two sides not only highlights the characteristics of each gender but also shows the harmony in social thinking. Throughout the proverb is the message affirming that each gender has unique qualities and values that contribute to determining their identity and position in life. Similar Relationships in Vietnamese Proverbs The idiom “Ăn theo thuở, ở theo thời” [Humans must adapt to their living environment] has a profound meaning about human adaptability and flexibility to face the changes of life. The similar connection structure between the two sides not only shows balance but also emphasizes the relationship between living conditions and the way of human existence. The first part "Eating according to times" suggests that, to survive and develop, people need to know how to seize opportunities and choose what is best for themselves at each specific time. This reflects a practical view, encouraging people to proactively adapt to the situation. On the contrary, the second part "Dwelling according to the times" implies that settling down or settling down must also be in accordance with surrounding conditions and changes. This requires that people not only have the ability to change to adapt to the environment but also need to be clearly aware of the social, economic and cultural context in their place of residence. Through the combination of the two parts, the saying conveys an important moral lesson: Life is always changing, and to survive and develop, we need to be flexible, responsive and willing to change ourselves. to suit the surrounding environment. * Contrast relationship Contrast relationships in English proverbs In English the proverb "Hope for the best, and prepare for the worst" contains two contradictory meanings. The pair of words "the best" and "the worst" represent completely opposite concepts, creating strength for the message of the saying. It is this contrast that helps emphasize the message that in life, we should have hope for good things but also need to be mentally prepared for the worst situations that can happen. In this context, the use of contrasting rhetoric becomes a useful tool, not only enhancing critical thinking abilities but also improving communication skills among community members. Contrast Relationships in Vietnamese Proverbs In Vietnamese, the proverb "Gần mực thì đen, gần đèn thì rạng" [Whoever is near the ink will be black, whoever is near the lamp will be illuminated] brings a profound message about the influence of the surrounding environment on people. The symmetrical structure of the sentence, with both sides balanced and equivalent in number of words, creates a harmonious tone, is easy to remember, and attracts the reader's attention. The two opposing images "near the ink" and "near the light" along with the words "black" and "bright" create a striking contrast, reflecting how the people and spaces we come into contact with every day can be defined. personality, behavior and thoughts. Repetition in expression not only emphasizes parallelism but also makes clear the connection between people and the living context. Through this proverb, we are advised to choose our friends and living environment carefully. When clearly aware of the importance of environmental influences, each individual can aim for more positive values, thereby promoting personal development. Living in a positive environment helps us develop in a good direction, while being surrounded by negativity can lead to negative effects. In short, the message of "Gần mực thì đen, gần đèn thì rạng" cleverly advises each person to be conscious of choosing friends and living environment to not only enhance personal values but also contribute to building a more positive society. In short, contrast relationship is a very common rhetorical device, allowing proverbs to convey profound ideas by juxtaposing opposing viewpoints. In literature and art, the use of this structure is shown through words expressing opposition such as "but". By using a striking contrast between two ideas, the contrast relationship highlights the subtle aspects of the message, giving readers a clearer view of the content. From there, readers can feel and better understand the valuable lessons in each proverb. Placing opposing viewpoints next to each other not only creates a multi-dimensional view but also strengthens the main argument of the content. This is 203 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate especially important in the proverb genre, where parallel structure helps present information clearly and logically. Proverbs frequently use this form to emphasize life lessons, encouraging listeners to think deeply about various relationships and situations. * Dependent relationship or cause and effect relationship Dependent Relationship in English proverbs In English, the proverb "Man proposes, God disposes" is a typical example of parallelism with two independent clauses. Each clause has its own subject: "man" and "God", combined with different verbs. When analyzing meaning, we see a close connection between the two clauses, in which the content of the second clause not only continues but also enriches the meaning of the first clause. This helps the proverb's message become natural and reasonable, expressing the profoundness of both aspects of life. Another example is the famous proverb: "Spare the rod, spoil the child." This sentence has a clear structure with two opposing clauses, each containing a phrasal verb equivalent in number of words. Semantically, the first clause "spare the rod" represents the reason related to not using the rod in educating children. This implies that lack of discipline or failure to apply necessary punishment can lead to serious consequences. On the contrary, the second clause "spoil the child" points out the consequences of the actions in the previous clause: if children are not properly managed and taught, they are likely to become spoiled, undisciplined and out of control. This arrangement creates a close connection between actions and results, helping listeners clearly realize the importance of education and discipline in raising children. This cause and effect formula not only reflects knowledge but also conveys moral values, emphasizing the responsibility of parents in shaping their children's character and behavior. Cause-and-Effect Relationships in Vietnamese Proverbs In Vietnamese, the proverb "Có công mài sắt, có ngày nên kim" [Whoever puts in the effort to sharpen an iron rod, one day, that iron will become a needle.] demonstrates the close connection between effort and achievement. "Sharpening iron" here is a necessary action, and "sharpening needles" is the result that all efforts will achieve. From then on, people realize that any effort will be rewarded. The close connection between cause and effect makes the content of proverbs profound and easy to remember. They not only convey knowledge but also promote communication and social interaction, becoming effective educational tools, shaping thought and arousing responsibility and creativity of each individual. The characteristic of a dependent or cause-and-effect relationship is that it usually consists of two connected phrases or clauses, forming a symmetrical sentence and conveying a clear message. The first clause states a fact, opinion, or idea, while the second clause adds or clarifies the original idea. Applying this structure not only brings semantic balance but also creates a special rhythm for the sentence, helping readers easily absorb and remember information. This type of structure often includes two independents but closely linked parts, creating a clear and easy-to-understand message. The content of this type of proverb is often based on cause-and-effect relationships, helping to highlight the message they want to convey. The first part usually describes a specific action or event, while the second part shows the consequences or results arising from that action. 4.2. Parallel Syntax 4.2.1. Survey Results Syntactic parallelism brings many benefits in proverbs. First, it helps clarify the message by breaking down complex ideas into simple, easy-to-understand parts, thereby helping listeners absorb the content more quickly. Second, syntactic parallelism focuses on important concepts, highlighting them in the minds of the audience. This not only attracts attention but also helps with better memory. Besides, parallelism also creates aesthetic beauty for the language. When parallelism is used, the language becomes more fluid and harmonious, creating a compelling rhythm. This contributes to making the information easier to absorb and leaves a lasting impression on the listener. In proverbs, the use of repetition in syntax, vocabulary and parallelism plays an important role. These are core elements that help create emphasis and memorableness in communication. Parallelism 204 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate and repetition are also essential in discourse and many other genres. Bauman's discussion highlights that “parallelism does not function in isolation and offers examples even of dialogic co-construction of discourse in which parallelism and repetition become essential strategies of the genre.”[20; 15] Through survey statistics, the types of syntactic parallelism are shown in the following table: Table 2. Aspects of syntactic parallelism. Aspects of syntactic parallelism Vietnamese proverbs English proverbs Total Repetition of vocabulary 119 [47%] 132 [53%] 251 Repetition of noun phrases 157 [42%] 212 [58%] 368 Repetition of prepositional phrases 113 [47%] 127 [53%] 240 Repetition of adjectives/adjective phrases 129 [44%] 161[55%] 290 Repetition of verbs/verb phrases 132 [51%] 128 [49%] 260 Repetition of predicate 110 [47%] 124 [53%] 234 Repetition of clauses 97 [42%] 131 [58%] 228 Repetition of complex sentences 59 [45%] 71 [55%] 130 Survey results show that repetition of nouns is the most numerous. The method of repeating complex sentence structures accounts for the least proportion in both English and Vietnamese proverbs. This proves that proverbs do not have many sentences with complex structures such as repeating a complex syntactic structure. The percentage is calculated on the total number of each aspect. Almost the number of English proverbs is higher than that of Vietnamese. This also demonstrates the Western way of thinking. In short, syntactic parallelism is a powerful tool in effective communication. It not only makes the message clear and powerful, but also brings high aesthetics to both spoken and written communication. The ability to integrate and resonate with readers/listeners further highlights the value of this technique in a variety of contexts. 4.2.2. Aspects of Syntactic Parallelism * Repetition of vocabulary Lexical repetition in English proverbs Let us consider the following three proverbs. 1. "Measure for Measure" 2. "An eye for an eye, a tooth for a tooth" 3. "Out of sight, out of mind". Sentence [1] uses the repetition structure of the word "measure". The simplicity of this expression creates a sense of balance and harmony. This expression not only reinforces the meaning but also piques the listener's attention. This repetition makes it easier for us to remember and feel the connection between elements in the sentence, while also highlighting the concept of fairness and proportionality - a universal theme in many cultures. . Next, sentence [2] also clearly shows symmetry through the use of parallel structure. This sentence is made up of two parts with an equivalent number of words, with the response between "an eye" and "a tooth". The repetition of the preposition "for" in between the two clauses adds to the balance. The proverb [3] "Out of sight, out of mind" uses the phrase "out of" repeatedly, creating a harmonious and memorable rhythm. This repetition not only helps listeners easily absorb the message but also understand the socio-psychological aspects hidden in the sentence. Repetition of words not only creates a memorable rhythm but also makes the message sharper and clearer. These artistic principles in language not only make the message easier to absorb but also increase its impact on the listener. Vocabulary Repetition in Vietnamese Proverbs Vocabulary repetition is a prominent feature in Vietnamese proverbs. The use of one or more similar words in a sentence or paragraph creates an effect of emphasis, contributing to clarifying the 205 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate meaning of the message. This form not only shows creativity in expression but also helps enhance recall for the listener or reader. Examples: “Khéo ăn thì no, khéo co thì ấm” [1] [If you skillfully spend money on food, you will be full; if you skillfully curl up, you will have enough warm blankets.] “Ăn cây nào, rào cây nấy” [2] [When we eat the fruit of any tree, we must fence that tree carefully.] In the proverb [1], the adjective "skillful" is repeated in both sides, creating an emphasis on behavioral skills in life. Similarly, in sentence [2], the noun "tree" also appears twice, contributing to clarifying the message. Using vocabulary repetition not only strengthens the meaning of the proverb but also helps listeners easily absorb and remember. This is an effective rhetorical device used a lot in Vietnamese proverbs. The effects of vocabulary repetition are very diverse. First, it highlights the main content, making the message easier to understand and remember. Second, vocabulary repetition also creates rhythm and tone for sentences, helping to increase the appeal of the language. * Repetition of noun phrases Repetition of noun phrases in English proverbs The structure of proverbs with noun phrases is a very common form, accounting for a significant proportion of the proverb treasure. These proverbs often have unique linguistic features, especially symmetry and repetition, to emphasize the message they want to convey. Usually they have two symmetrical sides, each containing two noun phrases of equal length, creating balance and opposition. We can consider some typical examples to better understand these factors. The proverb "One man's meat is another man's poison" expresses the meaning that what is beneficial for one person may be disadvantageous for another. The parallel structure between the clauses "one man's meat" and "another man's poison" uses noun phrases in opposite directions, thereby highlighting the message that personal preferences and opinions are very different. Another example is the proverb "Another day, another dollar." This proverb conveys the idea that each passing day brings new opportunities to make money, but also emphasizes that life is often a series of labor and income efforts. The repetition of the adjective "another" between the two clauses makes a strong impression, creating consistency and emphasizing that each day has its own value. In the two proverbs mentioned, a prominent point is the repetition of the noun phrase structure. The arrangement of words between clauses is guaranteed to be equivalent, thereby creating balance and ease of remembering for each sentence. This repetition not only plays a role in emphasizing the message but also makes the proverb more vivid. Furthermore, using the same vocabulary as well as consistent grammatical structures enhances the appeal of the language. These proverbs not only convey messages but also give listeners valuable lessons in an easy and interesting way. This makes the lessons come alive, contributing to being deeply engraved in the listener's mind. Repetition of Noun Phrases in Vietnamese Proverbs Parallelism with noun phrases in Vietnamese grammar focuses on using two or more noun phrases with similar structures to create emphasis, highlight meaning and create a harmonious memorable sentence, helps improve the artistry of language, creates balance and rhythm in sentences. The parallel structure with "noun phrase" plays an important role in expressing concepts and ideas in Vietnamese language and culture, contributing to enriching expressions and enhancing the communication of emotions. and meaning for the listener. Consider the following examples: "Một điều nhịn, chín điều lành" [If you abstain from one thing, you will receive 9 good things], "Miệng hùm, gan sứa," [He has the mouth of a tiger, but the liver of a jellyfish] and "A human life is more precious than a pile of gold" all exhibit parallel structures, similar to English proverbs. The structure "syntax parallelism" is shown by the fact that the noun phrases in each clause of the sentence are organized harmoniously in terms of grammar and meaning. This helps listeners easily feel the rhythm and balance in the sentence, while also highlighting the message the proverb wants to convey. Vietnamese proverbs often focus on using a balanced amount of vocabulary, creating a clear and memorable structure. The parallelism in structure also helps increase 206 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate the persuasiveness and influence of these proverbs in daily life, encouraging people towards positive values. Thanks to this linguistic feature, proverbs are not only educational but also have lasting recall power in people's minds. * Repetition of prepositional phrases Repetition of prepositional phrases in English proverbs The prepositional phrase structure in proverbs, especially in English, plays an important role as a rhetorical device. Each sentence often contains prepositional phrases arranged symmetrically, creating similarity and harmony in meaning. Some examples of double wave structures are: 1. "Out of sight, out of mind." 2. "In for a penny, in for a pound." This structure has outstanding features, including: Repetition: Sentence elements often begin with the same prepositional phrase "in for," "out of," followed by different nouns or noun phrases, creating a close connection. Symmetry: Arranging clauses in a balanced way makes content more appealing. This creates an easy- to-listen, memorable "model", making it easier for the reader or listener to absorb and remember the message. This structure is not only interesting but also adds value to the expression of ideas. This layout not only maintains balance but also enriches the expression, making the message clearer and easier to understand. The use of this prepositional phrase not only creates a unique character for the proverb but also enhances its appeal in conveying profound lessons. Repetition of adverbial phrases in Vietnamese proverbs Vietnamese does not use the concept of prepositional phrases like English. Instead, adverbs are often applied as prepositional phrases in English proverbs. The two examples below illustrate this: 1. "Trong nhà chưa tỏ, ngoài ngõ đã tường" [People inside the house don't know yet, people outside know everything] 2. "Trên không chằng, dưới không rễ." [Not having a close relationship with anyone, not relying on anyone or asking for help.] Both of these proverbs show a clear parallel structure, with the two parts remaining grammatical. Each part of the sentence contains a pair of similar adverbial phrases, beginning with the words "in" and "out," or "on" and "under," creating balance in presentation. This combination of meaning and form represents a unique style in the language, while bringing high value to Vietnamese. Using parallel structure not only makes sentences more attractive but also helps readers or listeners easily absorb and remember the content. This shows the power of language to convey messages in an effective and interesting way. * Repetition of adjectives/adjective phrases Repetition of adjectives/adjective phrases in English proverbs The parallelism is based on adjective phrases organized into two clauses, in which each sentence consists of two parts, each part being an adjective phrase, creating harmony and balance for the whole. For example, in proverbs like "Too little, too late" and "Less is more," we can see the balance in their syntactic structure and parallelism. In the phrase "too little," the adverb "too" emphasizes the degree of the adjective "little," and similarly in the phrase "too late." The sentence "Less is more" has a similar structure, with "less" and "more" being two single adjectives, connected by the verb "is," creating a close connection between them. This shows that both proverbs are syntactically complete. This balance not only creates a harmonious tone but also reinforces the meaning of the message. Thanks to this feature, proverbs become easy to remember and contain valuable lessons in life. Repetition of Adjectives/Adjective Phrases in Vietnamese Proverbs Clause structure based on adjective phrases is also a prominent feature in Vietnamese proverbs and is often found in parallel structures. Many proverbs are made up of pairs of adjectives, which contributes to making their content concise and clear. 207 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate Examples: 1. "Đói cho sạch, rách cho thơm." [Even though life is harsh and poor, the most important thing is to keep your conscience clear] 2. "Mạnh vì gạo, bạo vì tiền." [The person with a lot of rice and money is the one with power] 3. "Xa mặt, cách lòng." [out of sight, out of mind] In sentence [1], the combination of the two pairs of adjectives "hungry" and "torn" creates a harmonious rhythm, highlighting the characteristics of Vietnamese culture. Sentence [2] uses the pair of adjectives "strong" and "violent", while sentence [3] with "far" and "way" also shows similarities. These pairs of adjectives not only enrich the content but also create a rhythmic effect, helping listeners easily absorb and remember the message. Structural repetition, called "syntactic parallelism," makes each proverb stand out, impressive, and facilitates the recipient's deeper understanding of their meaning. * Repetition of verbs/verb phrases Repetition of Phrasal Verbs in English Proverbs Parallelism with phrasal verbs refers to the use of similar phrasal verbs in two parts of a proverb. For example, the proverb "Fall seven times, stand up eight" is constructed with two clauses, each containing a verb phrase "fall" and "stand up," creating balance and harmony. Similarly, the proverb "Hope for the best, and prepare for the worst" also uses this method with the verbs "hope" and "prepare." The combination of brevity and consistent structure in both clauses gives these proverbs a clear rhythm, while also highlighting the message they want to convey. Applying this structure not only creates memorability but also enhances the expressive power of the content. Repetition of Phrasal Verbs in Vietnamese Proverbs In Vietnamese culture, proverbs with phrasal verbs show a preference for artistic language and rich images. Sentences like "Ăn cây nào, rào cây đó" [You fence the tree from which you eat its fruit], "bán anh em xa, mua láng giềng gần" [Relatives who live far away are sometimes not as precious as our near neighbors], and "ăn cỗ đi trước, lội nước đi sau" [When someone is invited to a feast [party], they go ahead of everyone to grab a delicious piece and choose a good seat. But when wading in the water, they will go behind, leaving the difficult and dangerous things to others.] are typical examples of parallel structures, in Therefore, phrasal verbs create symmetrical pairs. Pairs of words like "eat, fence"; "sell, buy"; "Eat, wade" not only creates a balance in length but also shows a close relationship between action and result. This helps convey the profound philosophy of life and practical thinking of Vietnamese people. The parallelism also creates vivid images of concepts, suitable for communication that favors the use of artistic language. In general, this structure is a basic element in the Vietnamese language, reflecting the unique cultural thinking of the nation. * Repetition of predicate Repetition of Predicate in English proverbs The parallelism with "predicate" refers to the syntactic uniformity of the predicates, which all attach to a single subject. This means that the predicates are arranged consecutively, forming a coherent chain. Below are three typical proverbs to illustrate this structure. In the proverb "You can't run with the hare and hunt with the hounds" there is a connection between the verbs "run" and "hunt" with the nouns "rabbit" and "dog." This highlights the principle of structural repetition, which helps convey the message clearly and creates interesting conflict that reflects life. Similarly, the English proverb "Money makes many things but also makes devil dance" uses the word "money" combined with the two verbs "makes," to create a parallelism using two adjacent predicates. The proverb "March comes in like a lion and goes out like a lamb" also applies this principle to the two verbs "come in" and "goes out," creating similarities through the phrases "like a lion." and “like a lamb.” The sentence "You can't run with the hare and hunt with the hounds" gives two actions "run" and "hunt," linked to the two nouns "hare" and "hounds." Thereby, these proverbs help listeners easily remember and deeply feel the meaning and lessons they convey. 208 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate Repetition of predicate in Vietnamese proverbs In the treasury of Vietnamese folk literature, proverbs play an important role with many rich forms of expression. Many proverbs are built on a structure that repeats the predicate, creating a sound and rhythm similar to poetry or music. A clear demonstration of this is the proverb: "chuồn chuồn bay thấp thì mưa, bay cao thì nắng, bay vừa thì râm." [When a dragonfly flies low, it will rain, when it flies high, it will be sunny, and when it flies neither high nor low, it will neither rain nor sunshine]. This saying has the timbre of a traditional poetic genre and often appears in folk songs, expressing its closeness to people's daily lives. The subject "dragonfly" in the proverb is accompanied by three different predicates, creating a striking parallel in both grammar and meaning. This not only makes the content memorable but also shows people's subtle feelings about the weather. The richness of language not only reflects people's feelings and emotions but also contains valuable knowledge that is passed down from generation to generation. Through studying and analyzing these proverbs, we have the opportunity to better understand Vietnamese culture and folk wisdom. * Repetition of clauses Repetition of clauses in English proverbs Clause structure in proverbs is very common, with meaning created through parallelism. The two independent clauses are arranged symmetrically, creating balance and symmetry between the two sides. This becomes an outstanding characteristic of the proverb genre, demonstrating logic and harmony in language. [1] "Men get spoiled by staying, women get spoiled by wandering." This proverb is divided into two opposing clauses: "Men get spoiled by staying" and "women get spoiled by wandering". Both parts begin with a subject [men or women] and are followed by the verb "get spoiled", combined with the prepositional phrases "by staying" and "by wandering". [2]"Man proposes, heaven disposes." The second proverb shows a simple repetition structure but has a profound meaning. The two clauses "Man proposes" and "heaven disposes" have a similar structure, with the subjects "man" and "heaven", combined with the verbs "proposes" and "disposes". [3]"You pay your money and you take your choice." This proverb also shows a clear repetition structure with two parts: "You pay your money" and "you take your choice". Both clauses begin with the subject "you" and are followed by the verbs "pay" and "take", accompanied by the objects "your money" and "your choice". This similarity in structure brings a sense of simplicity and ease of understanding to the proverb. In short, these three proverbs not only reflect structural repetition but also contain valuable lessons about life, emphasizing the relationship between actions and results. The contrast in each sentence not only creates strength in expression but also helps listeners easily remember and apply profound messages in practice. Clause Repetition in Vietnamese Proverbs [1] Đàn ông xây nhà, đàn bà xây tổ ấm. [Men make house, women make home.] [2] Nước chảy về nguồn, lá rụng về cội. [No matter where people go or what they do, they will eventually return to their homeland, where they were born and raised.] [3] Nhà sạch thì mát, bát sạch thì ngon. [A house that is kept clean will make the space feel cooler and more airy; A clean bowl will make us feel more delicious.] The proverbs mentioned above comply with the principle of parallelism, showing consistency between clauses in each sentence. All three sentences have a balanced number of words and clauses have similar patterns. Each clause is an independent clause, helping to create the overall meaning of the main message. These proverbs create a clear symmetrical structure in content, grammar and rhythm, easily attracting the listener's attention. Such an arrangement not only makes the sentence more harmonious but also easier for the person receiving the information to remember. * Repetition of complex sentences 209 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate Repetition of Complex Sentences in English proverbs According to this type of structure, each clause of a proverb is actually a complex sentence, meaning that it has at least two clauses. The use of this structure contributes to enriching the meaning and form of the proverb. The proverb "Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime" consists of two closely linked complex clauses, creating a complete parallel structure. Each clause begins with a verb [give/teach], followed by a subject [a man] and a result [you feed him for a day/a lifetime]. The similar structure between the two parts not only creates symmetry but also creates rhythm, making the message easier to remember. Through this, this proverb conveys a profound message about the value of education and independence. The proverb "If wealth is lost, nothing is lost. If health is lost, something is lost. If character is lost, everything is lost" is a typical illustration of how conditional sentences can be linked together. effective way. This statement is structured into three distinct parts, each of which is conditional and contains a similar message. The special thing that readers can notice here is the uniformity in the number of words in each clause, thereby creating a sense of balance and rhythm for the entire sentence. The repetition of the phrase "if... is lost" along with the nouns "wealth," "health," and "character" not only emphasizes the meaning of each aspect but also builds a strong connection between the sides in proverbs, showing similarity in both form and content. These structures not only enhance memory but also contribute to conveying messages more effectively. Repetition of Complex Sentences in Vietnamese Proverbs In Vietnamese proverbs, complex sentence structures are not as common as simple sentences. From a syntactic perspective, the structure is much more complex than a simple sentence, clause or phrase. At the same time, semantically, these sentences are also more complex and subtle, requiring the speaker and listener to have deep understanding to fully grasp the meaning. A typical example is the proverb: "Cá không ăn muối cá ươn, con cãi cha mẹ trăm đường con hư." [If a fish is not salted, it will spoil. Likewise, if a child does not obey his parents, it will be spoiled]. In terms of grammatical structure, each clause of this proverb is a complex sentence, with each sentence consisting of two clauses that are closely linked grammatically. In the first part, the complex sentence structure includes two clauses: "fish don't eat salt" and "fish are rotten". Similarly, the second part also has a complex structure with two clauses: "children argue with their parents" and "they will be bad". The connection between these clauses shows the close relationship between action and consequence, emphasizing the importance of following rules. Compare Parallelism in Vietnamese and English Proverbs One of the notable differences between English and Vietnamese is the use of prepositional phrases and sentence structure. In English, prepositional phrases play a very important role in syntax, often used to indicate the relationship between components in a sentence. For example, the sentence "The cat is on the table" uses the prepositional phrase "on" to specify location. In contrast, Vietnamese does not use prepositional phrases in the same way. Instead, Vietnamese exploits adverbs to express the meaning and connection between elements in a sentence. For example, the sentence "The cat on the table" conveys complete information without the need for a prepositional phrase. Furthermore, in sentence structure, English requires verbs, whether verb tobe or other verbs, for sentences to be complete. For example, in a sentence like "Rotten fish", the verb does not appear but still carries a clear meaning in Vietnamese. When translated into English, this sentence should be transformed into "The fish is rotten", to which the verb "is" is added. This not only demonstrates the differences in verb usage between the two languages, but also shows how each language expresses meaning and grammar. In addition, proverbs in the two cultures also reflect the views and life philosophies of the people. For example, Vietnamese proverbs like "If you work hard, you will get success in a day" expresses the value of perseverance and effort. Similarly, the English proverb "Where there's a will, there's a way" 210 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate conveys a similar message about determination and effort. This shows that although the expressions may differ, the basic cultural values of work and will are shared. Vietnamese proverbs and English proverbs also have many outstanding differences, deeply reflecting the culture and lifestyle of each nation. Vietnamese proverbs are often written with rich rhythm, rhyme and intonation, which not only brings appeal but also makes it easy for listeners to remember. These proverbs often take poetic form, reflect moral values, rich life experiences, and are associated with images of nature and country life. Thereby, they demonstrate the close connection between humans and the surrounding environment. In contrast, English proverbs are more concise and succinct, with clear and direct messages. This shows the difference in approach and communication of ideas between the two cultures. Although they have their own characteristics, both types of proverbs play an important role in educating and transmitting valuable life experiences to future generations. They become a bridge between the past and present, helping to preserve folk culture and raise mutual awareness. Through these lessons, both cultures affirm the value of collective wisdom and the connection between people with each other and the world around them. Proverbs are an important part of each culture of each civilization, carrying human values, life experiences and valuable lessons from life. In Vietnam, proverbs often reflect cause and effect relationships, expressing folk knowledge in a concise and profound way. Many proverbs are not simply advice, but also vivid pictures of life, people and nature. In Vietnamese proverbs, images of nature and countryside are used to express the close connection between people and their surroundings. Sentences such as "Công cha như núi Thái Sơn, nghĩa mẹ như nước trong nguồn chảy ra" [The great gratitude of parents is compared to Thai Son mountain, like water at the source] not only emphasize family values but also contain typical images of heaven and earth, thereby engraving the listeners' minds with lessons about filial piety and respect for roots. In contrast, English proverbs often have a more intuitive approach, often using language related to people and objects. These proverbs create clear images that are easy to understand and remember. For example, the sentence "Where there's a will, there's a way" not only shows the spirit of overcoming difficulties but also encourages people to believe in their own abilities. This reflects one of the outstanding cultural characteristics of the British: perseverance and effort. Despite obvious differences in form and content, Vietnamese and English proverbs share important commonalities. Both contain valuable lessons from real life and humanistic ideals. Analyzing these characteristics not only helps readers gain a deeper understanding of language but also expands their knowledge of social culture and human thinking. Studying proverbs is not only about learning language but also a journey of cultural discovery. Each proverb is associated with the historical, social context and customs of each country. Therefore, through studying and researching proverbs, we can see more clearly how each culture expresses and explains life values. The comparison between Vietnamese proverbs and English proverbs also shows the diversity in the way language reflects thinking and concepts of life. While Vietnamese proverbs focus on emotional depth and philosophy, English proverbs focus on intuitiveness and practicality. This not only enriches the language treasure but also opens up new perspectives on common problems of humanity 5. Discussion Linguistic and cultural research shows that comparisons between Vietnamese proverbs and English proverbs provide insight into the similarities and differences between the two cultures. Although there are some obvious differences, there are also common elements that help us better understand the ways of thinking, lifestyles and perspectives of people in these two cultural communities. From this research, many further research directions can be proposed such as: What are the similarities and differences in the thinking of British and Vietnamese people? How are cultural imprints expressed in proverbs? 211 Edelweiss Applied Science and Technology ISSN: 2576-8484 Vol. 9, No. 1: 198-211, 2025 DOI: 10.55214/25768484.v9i1.4066 © 2025 by the authors; licensee Learning Gate Besides parallelism in proverbs, what other structures are there? What rhetorical devices often appear in proverbs? These questions will remain open for us to continue our next research. 6. Conclusion This study has shown that parallel structures in both semantic and grammatical aspects are effective in expressing information content and conveying human emotions. This structure not only highlights the beauty of the language but also forms an indispensable part of the cultural treasure and lifestyle thinking of the nations. Through these research results, we realize that proverbs are an important part of each nation's culture, and express the wisdom and life experience of our ancestors. Although languages and cultures are different, the messages that proverbs bring about life, people and social relationships often have many similarities between different cultures, such as Vietnam and England. This similarity shows that, despite obvious differences in language and customs, human thinking on universal issues still has many common links. Proverbs demonstrate human wisdom in explaining and reflecting eternal values such as wisdom and morality. This proves that human intelligence, although expressed in different forms, can still intersect, creating mutual understanding. Furthermore, proverbs are not just a simple means of communication; They are also tools to preserve the culture and heritage of each nation. Through every word, proverbs preserve the customs, beliefs, and cultural characteristics of the community. They help us better understand the psychology, customs, as well as the values that each ethnic group is attached to and cherishes. Transparency: The authors confirm that the manuscript is an honest, accurate, and transparent account of the study; that no vital features of the study have been omitted; and that any discrepancies from the study as planned have been explained. This study followed all ethical practices during writing. Copyright: © 2025 by the authors. This article is an open access article distributed under the terms and conditions of the Creative Commons Attribution (CC BY) license (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/). References [1] P. D. Goodwin and J. W. Wenzel, "Proverbs and practical reasoning: A study in socio‐logic," Quarterly Journal of Speech, vol. 65, no. 3, pp. 289-302, 1979. https://doi.org/10.1080/00335637909383480 [2] K. J. Dell, The book of Proverbs in social and theological context. Cambridge University Press, 2006. [3] M. V. Fox, "Proverbs 1-9: A new translation with introduction and commentary," 2000. [4] P. Meekyung, "A structural and cognitive interpretation of English proverbs and English-Korean contrast analysis," The Journal of Linguistics Science, 2023. https://doi.org/10.21296/jls.2023.03.104.155 [5] J. C. Okoro, "Evidences and applications of proverbs, parallelism, fables in Abigbo musical structure," International Journal, vol. 9, no. 1, pp. 23-35, 2021. https://doi.org/10.15640/ijmpa.v9n1a3 [6] T. Hildebrandt, "Motivation and antithetic parallelism in proverbs 10–15," Journal of the Evangelical Theological Society, vol. 35, no. 4, pp. 433-444, 1992. [7] A. Luc, "The titles and structure of Proverbs," Zeitschrift für die Alttestamentliche Wissenschaft, vol. 112, no. 2, p. 252, 2000. [8] S. U. Khan, M. S. Yousaf, and A. R. Y. Khan, "E-7: The applied patterns of english proverb [A descriptive stylistic study]. Habibia Islamicus," The International Journal of Arabic and Islamic Research,, vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 107-114, 2022. [9] L. Tyshakova, "Comparative analysis of structural-semantic types of English and Ukrainian proverbs and sayings," Bulletin of Luhansk Taras Shevchenko National University, vol. 335, pp. 38-46, 2000. https://doi.org/10.12958/2227- 2844-2020-4 [10] T. Nguyen Binh Phuong, "An investigation into google translates translation of English proverbs into Vietnamese," International Journal of Social Science and Human Research, vol. 6, no. 8, 2023. https://doi.org/10.47191/ijsshr/v6-i8- 50 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ https://doi.org/10.1080/00335637909383480 https://doi.org/10.21296/jls.2023.03.104.155 https://doi.org/10.15640/ijmpa.v9n1a3 https://doi.org/10.12958/2227-2844-2020-4 https://doi.org/10.12958/2227-2844-2020-4 https://doi.org/10.47191/ijsshr/v6-i8-50 https://doi.org/10.47191/ijsshr/v6-i8-50