On dogs, cows, and donkeys : the use of animal metaphors in linguistic insults

Abstract

The article provides a brief contrastive look at animal metaphors (zoosemes) and their application in the language practice of insulting. Animal metaphors constitute a significant theme used in verbal aggression. Also, certain animal categories, such as dog, pig, donkey, and cow, appear to be more universal vectors of dysphemistic qualities than others. Animal metaphors in English reveal strong dysphemistic tendencies, as indicated by a high ratio of dysphemistic zoosemes to animal metaphors in general. Therefore, further research into animal metaphors, alongside investigations concerning verbal aggression, appears to be worthwhile and informative.