Proverbs As Linguistic Units Preserving the Value of Words

Abstract

Proverbs represent condensed expressions of collective wisdom that embody the ethical, cultural, and communicative values of a society. Among their thematic classifications, proverbs concerning the value of words occupy a distinctive position within the moral philosophy of speech communities. These proverbs articulate cultural perceptions of language, silence, and verbal responsibility, reflecting an understanding of speech as both a cognitive instrument and a moral force. The present study examines the linguistic, semantic, stylistic, pragmatic, and cognitive features of proverbs that emphasize the value of words. Drawing on cross-linguistic examples, the research demonstrates that across cultures, words are perceived as indicators of intellectual capacity, reflections of moral integrity, and powerful agents capable of creation, healing, or destruction. Proverbs addressing speech behavior, communicative ethics, and the social consequences of language form a significant layer of intangible cultural heritage. The findings suggest that such proverbs reveal a universal awareness of language as a transformative social force and highlight the enduring relevance of verbal responsibility in human interaction.