Food metaphors in Taiwan Hakka

This chapter investigated food metaphors in Hakka to understand metaphorical expressions and subsequent cultural implications, with the ultimate goal of facilitating Hakka language learning. Data were collected from Hakka idiom books and dictionaries. Conceptual Blending Theory (Fauconnier and Turner 2002) is the theoretical background used in this chapter. We aim to explore: (1) metaphorical expressions of FOOD in Hakka; (2) metaphorical categorizations of FOOD; and (3) Hakka people’s cognitive and cultural perceptions behind food metaphors. Results show that, firstly, FOOD in Hakka maps onto several target domains: LIFE; PERSONALITY; and HUMAN RELATION. In addition, certain Hakka thought processes are visible in their idioms and suggest that Hakkas pay much attention to interpersonal relations. In sum, food idioms in Hakka reveal not only culture-specific attributes but also traditional Hakka thinking and behavior that fulfill the purpose of persuading and encouraging younger generations to be kind, industrious, and sociable.