Exploring The English–Vietnamese Translation of Metaphors in Economic News Articles

International Journal of Current Science Research and Review ISSN: 2581-8341 Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 DOI: 10.47191/ijcsrr/V8-i12-27, Impact Factor: 8.048 IJCSRR @ 2025 www.ijcsrr.org 6161 *Corresponding Author: Long Thanh Nguyen Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 Available at: www.ijcsrr.org Page No. 6161-6175 Exploring The English–Vietnamese Translation of Metaphors in Economic News Articles Anh Van Huynh1, Long Thanh Nguyen2 1 Faculty of Foreign Languages, Binh Duong University, Vietnam 2 Faculty of Foreign Languages, Nguyen Tat Thanh University, Vietnam ABSTRACT: The translation of metaphors remains a major challenge in rendering economic information from English into Vietnamese due to the complexity of figurative meaning and cultural connotations. This study investigates metaphorical expressions in English economic news articles and their Vietnamese translations to identify common metaphor types, examine translation approaches, and assess their effectiveness in conveying meaning. A corpus of 331 metaphorical expressions extracted from 30 English economic news articles and their published Vietnamese equivalents was analyzed through discourse analysis. The findings show that structural, orientational, and ontological metaphors were the most frequent types used in economic journalism. Vietnamese translators employed various techniques that prioritize conceptual equivalence and communicative clarity; however, shifts in imagery and rhetorical effect were observed in some cases. The study highlights the need for translators to preserve both semantic accuracy and metaphorical impact to ensure effective communication. Future research is recommended to expand the corpus to other news genres and explore additional translation strategies for metaphor-rich content. KEYWORDS: Conceptual metaphor theory, Economic news, Metaphor, Translation, Translation strategies. 1. INTRODUCTION In today’s globalized society, the economic sector is playing an increasingly important role in international communication. Economic news not only delivers information about financial issues, markets, and investment but also influences public perception and decision-making across nations. English serves as the dominant lingua franca in international business and economics; therefore, the translation of economic news into Vietnamese is vital to ensure that Vietnamese readers including policymakers, investors, and the general public can access up-to-date international information effectively. However, economic news language is far from literal or purely technical. It frequently employs metaphorical expressions to simplify abstract financial concepts and make economic phenomena more vivid and persuasive to readers. For instance, terms such as market crash, economic recovery, or currency war reflect figurative conceptualizations rather than literal meanings. These metaphors, grounded in Conceptual Metaphor Theory (Lakoff & Johnson, 1980, 2003), reveal how humans perceive and understand economics through embodied cognition and metaphorical thinking. As a result, metaphors serve not only a linguistic function but also a cognitive and rhetorical one in economic discourse. Translating metaphors between English and Vietnamese, however, poses significant challenges. Differences in cultural cognition, semantic structures, and stylistic conventions may hinder the transfer of metaphorical meaning and pragmatic effects. Inappropriate translation strategies may result in loss of imagery, distorted meaning, or reduced communicative impact. Therefore, mastery of metaphor translation is essential for ensuring both accuracy and readability in Vietnamese economic journalism. From a practical perspective, the accurate translation of economic metaphors is of growing importance in Vietnam’s context of economic integration. As Vietnam increasingly participates in global trade and investment, demand for high-quality translations of financial news has become urgent. Readers - including policymakers, investors, and the public - rely on translated reports to make informed decisions. If metaphors are mistranslated, the consequences may range from confusion to misinformation. For example, while “bull run” literally means the run of a bull, translators often render it as “thị trường giá lên” to avoid confusion, and “financial storm” is best translated as “cơn bão tài chính” to preserve both imagery and meaning. These choices highlight the delicate balance between accuracy and cultural adaptation. Furthermore, the increasing exposure of Vietnamese readers to international economic news highlights the need for translations that are both linguistically accurate and culturally resonant. Translators must not only master linguistic proficiency but International Journal of Current Science Research and Review ISSN: 2581-8341 Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 DOI: 10.47191/ijcsrr/V8-i12-27, Impact Factor: 8.048 IJCSRR @ 2025 www.ijcsrr.org 6162 *Corresponding Author: Long Thanh Nguyen Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 Available at: www.ijcsrr.org Page No. 6161-6175 also possess specialized knowledge of economics and awareness of cultural nuances. This ensures that metaphorical imagery is either preserved or suitably adapted without distorting the intended message. Given this gap, this study investigates metaphorical expressions collected from English economic news articles and their published Vietnamese translations. It aims to (1) identify the common types of metaphors used in economic journalism following Conceptual Metaphor Theory, and (2) analyze how translators handle these metaphors to retain both semantic content and communicative effects. The findings are expected to provide practical implications for improving translation quality and serve as references for future research in economic translation and metaphor studies in Vietnam. 2. LITERATURE REVIEW 2.1 Definition of Metaphor Metaphor is a common rhetorical device in many types of texts, especially in economic articles, where abstract concepts are often presented through concrete and vivid imagery. According to the Oxford Dictionary (2014, p. 1024), a metaphor is “the description of an object or idea by using another object or idea that shares similar characteristics, in order to create a visual effect or convey a deeper meaning.” Similarly, the Macmillan Dictionary (2007, p. 956) defines metaphor as “the use of a word or phrase not in its literal sense, but to imply something similar, helping to clarify or enhance the expressiveness of the message.” In the field of translation, Newmark (1981, p. 84) views metaphor as a major challenge for translators due to it requires a deep understanding of both the source and target languages to accurately convey implicit meanings, associative imagery, and the expressive nuances of the original text. Particularly in economic articles, where metaphors are often used to describe complex financial phenomena, correctly understanding and translating these metaphors is crucial for ensuring accuracy and effective communication. In Vietnam, scholars such as Nguyen, T.G (2008) and Do, H.C (1996) agree that metaphor is a form of semantic transfer based on similarities between two objects or phenomena. They also highlight the role of metaphor in creating new meanings, enriching linguistic expression, and reflecting the cognitive processes of language users. From a cognitive linguistics perspective, Lakoff and Johnson (1980) argue that metaphor is not merely a linguistic phenomenon but also a cognitive process. They introduce the concept of "conceptual metaphor," in which one domain of experience (source domain) is used to understand and express another domain (target domain). A notable example in economics is "the economy is a machine," where terms like "engine of growth," "fuel inflation," and "economic slowdown" illustrate the economy as a mechanical system that can accelerate, break down, or require maintenance. Kövecses (2010) also affirms that metaphor plays a central role in organizing thought and structuring language. He emphasizes that metaphors frequently appear in everyday language as well as in specialized texts, and mastering a language’s foundational metaphor system is a key factor in translation. He describes metaphor as “an indispensable tool for conceptualizing abstract domains through more concrete and familiar ones” (p.4). This is particularly relevant in translation studies, where recognizing the underlying metaphorical mappings helps avoid literal translations that miss the intended meaning. Thus, in this study, metaphor is defined as both a semantic transfer mechanism and a cognitive process in which one concept is used to understand and express another. In economic news discourse, such metaphors are central to how complex phenomena are conceptualized and communicated. Understanding these conceptual structures is essential for accurate and culturally appropriate translation between English and Vietnamese. Metaphors also differ in how conventional they are. Some, such as "economic growth," are so widely used that their figurative source is hardly apparent (dead or conventional metaphors); others, such as "a phoenix rising from the ashes" to describe recovery, are imaginative metaphors that draw attention and contribute to artistic depth. This distinction is important for translation because, whereas fresh metaphors frequently need for creative adaptation, established metaphors may have basic equivalents. In conclusion, metaphors can be viewed from three complimentary angles: (1) as a language tool that enhances communication, (2) as a cognitive process that organizes ideas, and (3) as an ideological and rhetorical instrument that shapes interpretation. The current study, which sees metaphors in economic news items as both linguistic difficulties and cognitive-cultural phenomena that require particular translation attention, is supported by this multifaceted viewpoint. 2.2.Types of Metaphor Metaphors have been categorized in various ways depending on linguistic, rhetorical, and cognitive perspectives. In the field International Journal of Current Science Research and Review ISSN: 2581-8341 Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 DOI: 10.47191/ijcsrr/V8-i12-27, Impact Factor: 8.048 IJCSRR @ 2025 www.ijcsrr.org 6163 *Corresponding Author: Long Thanh Nguyen Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 Available at: www.ijcsrr.org Page No. 6161-6175 of translation and especially in economic discourse, understanding the types of metaphors used is essential for accurately capturing both their meaning and rhetorical impact in the target language. This section outlines the major classifications of metaphor commonly discussed in translation studies and cognitive linguistics. From a cognitive linguistic perspective, Lakoff and Johnson (1980) proposed classifying implicit into three most prominent implicit types that are collected and selected. Table 2.1 Types of metaphor and examples from Lakoff & Turner (1989) Types of metaphor Examples Explanation Structural kickstart the economy, fuel the market, an overheating economy These metaphors help understand an abstract concept (e.g., the economy) through the structure of a more concrete and familiar concept (e.g., a machine). They offer clarity and vivid imagery. Orientational prices go up, market crash, indexes plummet, the economy is rising, market downturn Based on spatial orientation (up/down), these metaphors reflect abstract states such as success or failure in terms of direction, commonly used in financial news. which reflect an implicit mapping between abstract concepts (e.g., success, failure) and spatial directions (up, down). Ontological the heart of the economy, the face of the crisis, fragile recovery These metaphors conceptualize abstract entities as tangible objects, allowing complex and intangible ideas to be more easily visualized and discussed. These metaphors help people talk about complex and intangible aspects of the economy as if they were tangible things. From a rhetorical and linguistic perspective, metaphors are commonly categorized into two main types: conventional metaphors and creative (or novel) metaphors, collected and chosen from Goatly (1997); Newmark (1988); Lakoff & Turner’s (1989) theories, are the most prominent. Table 2.2 Types of metaphor and examples from Goatly (1997); Newmark (1988); Lakoff & Turner (1989) Types of metaphor Examples Explanation Conventional economic growth, market collapse, financial storm These metaphors are widely used in economic discourse and easily recognized by native speakers. Their figurative origin may go unnoticed due to frequent use. They simplify complex economic phenomena using familiar imagery. Creative (or Novel) a phoenix rising from the ashes (used to describe economic recovery) These metaphors are less predictable and often evoke vivid imagery. They require more cognitive effort to interpret and are typically used for rhetorical effect or stylistic emphasis. According to Newmark (1981), there are six major types of metaphor in the process of transferred reference: Table 2.3 Types of metaphor and examples from Newmark (1988) Types of metaphor Examples Explanation Dead foot of the mountain, falling interest rates Metaphors that have lost their figurative meaning through overuse and are now understood literally. Cliché engine of growth, pillar of the economy, economic backbone Overused metaphors that may still be vivid but are considered unoriginal or worn out. International Journal of Current Science Research and Review ISSN: 2581-8341 Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 DOI: 10.47191/ijcsrr/V8-i12-27, Impact Factor: 8.048 IJCSRR @ 2025 www.ijcsrr.org 6164 *Corresponding Author: Long Thanh Nguyen Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 Available at: www.ijcsrr.org Page No. 6161-6175 Stock inflation heats up, market meltdown, market crash Commonly used metaphors in specific contexts (e.g., economics), often culturally shared and accessible to the general public. Adapted bearish clouds loom over Wall Street (modified version of "storm is coming") Slightly altered or localized versions of existing metaphors to fit specific contexts. Recent economic firewall, financial tsunami Newly coined metaphors that reflect recent events or trends, often creative and striking. Original the economy is a sleeping giant Invented by the author for rhetorical or poetic effect, offering new ways of seeing a concept. Besides the classifications of Lakoff & Johnson and Newmark, Kövecses (2010) proposed the type of image metaphor, emphasizing on the transfer of mental images from one object to another to create strong visual and emotional impressions. Table 2.4 Types of metaphor and examples from Kövecses (2010) Types of metaphor Examples Explanation Image a swirling storm of debt, the iceberg of hidden costs Visually based metaphors that map mental images from one domain onto another to create vivid emotional or descriptive effects. Similar to English, Vietnamese language also employs a system of metaphor for transferring the meaning of words. This system is based on various metaphorical relations, and there exist a range of metaphorical types that arise from these relations. While numerous relations and types of metaphor exist, this thesis aims to present the most commonly used and easily identifiable ones. This thesis has utilized the theories of Do Huu Chau (1996) and Nguyen Thien Giap (2008) as the basis for the examples provided. Table 2.5 Types of metaphor and examples from Do, H.C (1996) and Nguyen, T.G (2008) Types of metaphor Examples Explanation Similarity-based Nền kinh tế là một cỗ máy (The economy is a machine) Doanh nghiệp đầu tàu (Leading enterprise as a locomotive) This type is based on perceived similarities in shape, function, or behavior between two concepts. It reflects metaphor through analogical thinking. Association-based Bức tranh kinh tế (The economic picture) Trái tim của thị trường (The heart of the market) This type is based on associative relations such as part-whole, container-content, or function, rather than direct similarity. It emphasizes contextual or cultural links. In summary, after reviewing the relevant taxonomies and taking into account the theoretical pain points of cognitive linguistics and translation studies, the decision was made to filter seven different types of metaphors (M1 to M7) into the context of this dissertation. These types of metaphors were identified to include theories from prominent linguists in the field, including Lakoff and Johnson (1980), Newmark (1988), Goatly (1997), Kövecses (2010) and Vietnamese scholars such as Do, H.C (1996) and Nguyen, T.G (2008). This choice ensures a comprehensive analysis, appropriate to the nuanced language and cultural contexts of economic contexts in both English and Vietnamese. 2.3 Metaphor translation approaches in economic news Metaphor translation in economic news is a challenging procedure that calls for both linguistic proficiency and a thorough comprehension of the cultural and cognitive structures present in both the source and target languages. The focus has steadily moved International Journal of Current Science Research and Review ISSN: 2581-8341 Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 DOI: 10.47191/ijcsrr/V8-i12-27, Impact Factor: 8.048 IJCSRR @ 2025 www.ijcsrr.org 6165 *Corresponding Author: Long Thanh Nguyen Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 Available at: www.ijcsrr.org Page No. 6161-6175 from set methodologies to broader approaches that favor meaning preservation, conceptual equivalents, and communication efficacy, despite the fact that researchers have put forward a number of frameworks for handling metaphor in translation. Conceptual Metaphor Theory (Lakoff & Johnson, 1980), which views metaphor as a cognitive mechanism that structures abstract domains (e.g., economics) through more concrete sources (e.g., movement, force, machinery). When translating metaphors in economic news, the translator must first identify the underlying conceptual mapping—such as economy is a machine or market is a living organism—before determining how this mapping is realized in the target language. Instead of emphasizing surface-level lexical congruence, this method emphasizes the significance of conceptual equivalency. Another significant perspective is the functional approach to translation (Schäffner, 2004), which argues that translation choices should be governed by the intended communicative purpose of the text. In economic journalism, metaphors typically serve to clarify complex concepts, attract reader engagement, and convey evaluative or persuasive meanings. As a result, the translator must decide whether a metaphor in the original text serves primarily to explain, dramatize, or frame an economic event before selecting an equivalent phrase that accomplishes the same goal in the Vietnamese context. This could entail keeping the original metaphor, substituting one that is suited for the culture, or re-expressing the underlying concept with more recognizable imagery. Economic news is a hybrid genre that combines technical information with narrative and rhetorical aspects, according to discourse-based and audience-oriented approaches. Metaphors support the text's narrative structure, emotional tone, and conceptualization. Therefore, translators must understand how metaphor affects public perception, frames economic players, and shapes discourse coherence. In this way, rather than just transferring discrete statements, metaphor translation turns into a process of rebuilding discursive effects. Furthermore, the cross-cultural approach highlights the significant differences between Vietnamese and English metaphor systems. Vietnamese economic speech usually uses imagery of everyday life, agriculture, and social interactions, whereas English economic discourse commonly uses metaphors of war, mechanics, nature, and muscular activity. Intercultural sensitivity is necessary for effective translation in order to steer clear of literal interpretations that could sound strange or skew the metaphor's practical meaning. Rather, translators need to identify metaphorical or non-metaphorical terms that fit Vietnamese cultural norms and cognitive patterns. In conclusion, modern research on metaphor translation places more emphasis on adaptable and meaning-oriented strategies than strict protocols. When rendering metaphors in economic news, translators are advised to use conceptual, functional, discursive, and cultural views rather than established procedures. By doing this, they may maintain the source text's communicative value and semantic meaning, ensuring that metaphorical statements are still understandable, logical, and powerful for Vietnamese readers. 2.4. Previous studies There have been several studies investigating the translation of metaphors in economic discourse across different languages and cultures. The following are some representative examples: In Charteris - Black’s (2000) study, metaphor was examined in political and economic texts, highlighting its persuasive function and its role in framing ideological messages. The research emphasized that metaphors are not merely ornamental devices but serve as cognitive tools that shape how people conceptualize abstract economic concepts. The study suggested that the translator’s awareness of metaphorical frames and their socio-cultural relevance is crucial in producing accurate and meaningful translations. White (2003) analyzed metaphor use in financial news reporting, focusing on English-language newspapers. His findings indicated that economic metaphors such as "market crash," "bullish trend," or "economic meltdown" serve to dramatize events and facilitate comprehension of complex phenomena. However, these metaphors also pose challenges in translation, especially when equivalent imagery does not exist in the target language. The study advocated for a translation approach that considers both the conceptual metaphor and the cultural background of the target audience. In Vietnam, Phan, V.Q (2012) conducted a study on metaphor in economic discourse, particularly within Vietnamese business journalism. He identified frequent metaphorical expressions like “thị trường lao dốc” (the market plunges) or “lạm phát phi mã” (galloping inflation) and analyzed their cognitive and cultural implications. The study emphasized the necessity of metaphorical awareness in translation practice to maintain both accuracy and rhetorical impact. Similarly, Nguyen, T.T.H (2018) explored metaphor translation in Vietnamese - English economic texts and pointed out that literal translations often fail to capture the metaphorical meaning or pragmatic effect. She proposed a contextual adaptation method, encouraging translators to identify the International Journal of Current Science Research and Review ISSN: 2581-8341 Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 DOI: 10.47191/ijcsrr/V8-i12-27, Impact Factor: 8.048 IJCSRR @ 2025 www.ijcsrr.org 6166 *Corresponding Author: Long Thanh Nguyen Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 Available at: www.ijcsrr.org Page No. 6161-6175 conceptual domain behind each metaphor and to recreate it with equivalent metaphorical imagery in the target language whenever possible. In addition to the aforementioned studies, research by Musolff (2004) and Boers (1999) emphasized the persuasive and cognitive functions of metaphor in economic discourse. In Vietnam, Dang, T.H (2021) examined metaphorical usage in bilingual economic texts, highlighting pragmatic and stylistic differences. However, none of these studies specifically focused on English - Vietnamese metaphor translation in economic journalism - a gap that this thesis seeks to fill. Although these studies have contributed significantly to our understanding of the role of metaphor in economic discourse, most of them either focus on monolingual analysis or deal with translation in broader literary or cultural contexts. Few have addressed the specific challenges of English–Vietnamese metaphor translation in economic journalism, where figurative language plays a dual role: simplifying complex economic concepts and shaping public perception. This gap provides the rationale for the present study. From these previous studies, it is evident that metaphor plays a critical cognitive and communicative role in economic discourse. Translating such metaphors requires more than linguistic equivalence; it demands an understanding of conceptual mappings, cultural knowledge, and domain-specific context. However, there is still a lack of in-depth research focusing specifically on English-Vietnamese metaphor translation in economic journalism. Therefore, this thesis entitled “Exploring the EnglishVietnamese Translation of Metaphors in Economic News Articles” aims to investigate how metaphorical expressions are translated in this genre and to identify the strategies that ensure both accuracy and communicative effectiveness. In economic journalism, metaphors serve a teaching purpose in addition to their communication one. They democratize financial knowledge by making difficult technical ideas understandable to readers who are not experts. For instance, the metaphor of a "market bubble" illustrates the brittleness of speculative expansion, whereas the image of a "economic engine" helps lay readers picture the factors propelling growth. Without these metaphors, the general public would not be able to obtain economic reporting. Metaphors also play a strategic role in shaping market behavior. Financial journalism does not merely report events but often influences expectations and decisions. Dramatic metaphors like “tsunami,” “meltdown,” or “shockwave” can amplify perceptions of crisis, while positive metaphors like “recovery path” or “phoenix rising” can foster optimism. In this sense, metaphors act as discursive tools that shape investor confidence and, indirectly, market dynamics. Furthermore, metaphors reflect cultural values and collective experiences. For example, English economic news frequently draws on metaphors of war (“currency war,” “trade battle”), sports (“winning streak,” “losing ground”), and nature (“storm,” “earthquake”), while Vietnamese journalism often prefers imagery tied to daily life, agriculture, or family (e.g., “trụ cột kinh tế,” “bức tranh kinh tế”). These cultural preferences influence how readers interpret and emotionally respond to economic developments. In translation, failing to recognize the cultural resonance of metaphors risks not only semantic loss but also pragmatic miscommunication. A metaphor that sounds powerful and persuasive in English may appear awkward or ineffective in Vietnamese if rendered literally. Conversely, culturally adapted metaphors can enhance clarity and relatability, but they may alter the original tone. This delicate balance underscores the importance of adopting a systematic framework for metaphor translation, which ensures that accuracy, communicative value, and rhetorical impact are preserved. In conclusion, metaphors serve a variety of purposes in economic news pieces, including conceptualizing abstract concepts, generating strong feelings in readers, framing ideological viewpoints, clarifying specialist information, and influencing actual economic perceptions. In order to maintain the communication value of the source text and guarantee that Vietnamese audiences receive correct information as well as the intended rhetorical and cognitive consequences, translators must acknowledge these roles. 3. METHODOLOGY The study employed descriptive, statistical and discourse analysis methods to identify, classify, describe, and analyze metaphorical expressions in English economic news articles and their Vietnamese translations. This study focused on conducting a discourse analysis of metaphorical expressions in English economic news articles and their Vietnamese translations. This method was selected because it allows for a systematic and detailed examination of linguistic features in both source and target texts, particularly metaphorical expressions. To examine these metaphorical expressions, a discourse analytical approach was applied, supported by quantitative tools to classify and visualize data trends. The quantitative methodology involved the systematic International Journal of Current Science Research and Review ISSN: 2581-8341 Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 DOI: 10.47191/ijcsrr/V8-i12-27, Impact Factor: 8.048 IJCSRR @ 2025 www.ijcsrr.org 6167 *Corresponding Author: Long Thanh Nguyen Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 Available at: www.ijcsrr.org Page No. 6161-6175 identification and enumeration of metaphor instances, followed by their classification based on metaphor type (e.g., structural, ontological, orientational) and translation strategy (e.g., preservation, substitution, paraphrasing). The collected data were then analyzed using software tools such as Excel or SPSS to produce tables, charts, and graphs that illustrate trends in metaphor usage and translation patterns. Moreover, the qualitative approach focused on a detailed interpretation of each metaphorical expression within its specific context in the economic discourse. This involved analyzing the underlying conceptual metaphors based on Conceptual Metaphor Theory (CMT) (Lakoff & Johnson, 1980), identifying relevant cultural and cognitive frames, and assessing how these metaphors were rendered in Vietnamese. By combining both quantitative and qualitative research methods, the study has provided a more comprehensive understanding of metaphor translation in economic journalism, enhancing the ability to perceive and analyze texts at a deeper level and supporting the pedagogical application of metaphor use across different languages. The data collection process in this study was designed to gather both the original English metaphorical expressions in economic news articles and their Vietnamese translations. A corpus of 30 English economic news articles was selected from reputable sources including The Economist, Financial Times, the New York Times, the Washington Post and Bloomberg. Their Vietnamese translations were collected from official Vietnamese news agencies. The articles were selected based on relevance to economic themes, recency, and availability of both English originals and Vietnamese translations. Each article was read thoroughly, and metaphorical expressions were identified manually based on the principles of Conceptual Metaphor Theory (Lakoff & Johnson, 1980). Only metaphors with economic relevance and conceptual consistency were included. These metaphors were then extracted and aligned with their translated equivalents in the Vietnamese versions. All metaphorical expressions were recorded in a data sheet that included the metaphor source domain, target domain, contextual meaning, and corresponding translation strategy. The selection criteria emphasized clarity of metaphorical meaning, economic specificity, and cultural-translational interest. The corpus was expected to provide a diverse and representative set of data to analyze translation strategies and patterns used in rendering English metaphors into Vietnamese. The collected data were analyzed using both qualitative and quantitative methods. First, the metaphorical expressions were classified based on their conceptual categories, such as structural metaphors (e.g., “time is money”), orientational metaphors (e.g., “market goes up/down”), and ontological metaphors (e.g., “the economy is a machine”). These categories were identified according to Lakoff and Johnson’s (1980) classification system. Quantitatively, the frequency of each metaphor type and corresponding translation strategy was calculated. Translation techniques were categorized based on established frameworks such as Vinay and Darbelnet (1995) and further refined using Moentaha’s (2008) expanded model (e.g., literal translation, substitution, paraphrasing, explicitation, adaptation). Charts and tables were created to illustrate how often each strategy was employed and which metaphor types were most frequently used in economic discourse. Qualitatively, an in-depth analysis of selected metaphorical expressions was conducted to assess how the meaning, imagery, and cognitive load were retained, altered, or lost in translation. The analysis focused on identifying whether cultural adaptation, metaphor preservation, or metaphor replacement occurred, and how these choices affected the communicative function and reader perception in Vietnamese. Contextual factors such as cultural familiarity and economic literacy were also taken into account. By integrating both methods, the study sought to provide a comprehensive understanding of how economic metaphors are translated across linguistic and cultural boundaries. 4. FINDINGS AND DISCUSSIONS 4.1.1. Research Question 1: Types of metaphorical expressions used in the English economic news articles A total of 331 metaphorical expressions were identified across ten economic news articles. Based on the theoretical framework outlined in Chapter 2, these expressions were classified into seven metaphor types (M1–M7). Table 4.1 summarizes the metaphor types identified in the corpus. International Journal of Current Science Research and Review ISSN: 2581-8341 Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 DOI: 10.47191/ijcsrr/V8-i12-27, Impact Factor: 8.048 IJCSRR @ 2025 www.ijcsrr.org 6168 *Corresponding Author: Long Thanh Nguyen Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 Available at: www.ijcsrr.org Page No. 6161-6175 Table 4.1. Types of conceptual metaphors in the corpus Type Conceptual Metaphor Frequency Percentage M1 Structural metaphor 92 27.8% M2 Orientational metaphor 76 22.9% M3 Ontological metaphor 48 14.5% M4 Conventional metaphor 56 16.9% M5 Creative metaphor 37 11.2% M6 Image metaphor 13 3.9% M7 Similarity-based 9 2.7% Total 331 100% The distribution of metaphor types shown in Table 4.1 illustrates how metaphor is systematically employed in English economic news to conceptualize complex economic situations. Among the seven categories, structural metaphors (M1) appear most frequently with 92 occurrences, accounting for 27.8% of the dataset. This high proportion indicates that economic journalists tend to describe abstract economic processes through the lens of concrete structures such as machines, buildings, or mechanisms. By conceptualizing the economy as a system with parts that can “collapse,” “slow down,” or “be rebuilt,” writers make highly technical issues more accessible and comprehensible to the general public. The dominance of structural metaphors therefore reflects both cognitive ease and communicative efficiency. Orientational metaphors (M2) constitute the second-largest group with 76 occurrences (22.9%). These metaphors ascribe physical properties or human characteristics to abstract entities such as markets, inflation, or consumption. Their relatively high frequency suggests that economic news favors vivid and dynamic portrayals of impersonal economic forces. For instance, when inflation is described as “eating away savings,” or when the market is said to “react nervously,” the underlying ontological mapping allows readers to understand economic phenomena as active agents capable of causing real consequences. Such representations enhance emotional engagement and reinforce the seriousness of economic developments. The presence of ontological metaphors (M3) at 14.5% shows that economic states such as recession, crisis, or stability are often conceptualized as entities or containers that actors can enter or exit. This aligns with the cognitive principle that abstract states are understood as physical objects or bounded spaces. Such metaphors help readers visualize economic conditions as tangible scenarios that actors interact with, thereby strengthening comprehension. Meanwhile, conventional metaphors (M4) account for 16.9% of the corpus. These metaphors draw on widely shared and frequently used conceptualizations such as “market confidence,” “economic health,” or “financial storms.” Because they are deeply rooted in common linguistic usage, they allow journalists to communicate complex ideas succinctly while maintaining rhetorical familiarity for the audience. Creative metaphors (M5), accounting for 11.2%, highlight the stylistic richness of economic journalism. These metaphors include innovative or less conventional expressions that frame economic events in fresh ways, such as depicting recovery as a journey with “turning points” or “new paths.” Their use adds narrative appeal and offers nuanced perspectives on ongoing developments. In contrast, image metaphors (M6), though less frequent (3.9%), carry strong rhetorical force. These metaphors establish a concrete image by mapping one sensory domain onto another, often creating vivid mental pictures to emphasize the intensity or immediacy of economic conditions. Their selective use suggests that journalists employ them strategically to draw attention to notable economic disruptions or transformations. Finally, similarity-based metaphors (M7) account for the smallest proportion (2.7%). These expressions highlight perceived similarities between economic phenomena and other domains, often combining metaphor and comparison. Although not frequent, they contribute to the expressive diversity of the discourse and underscore the creative dimension of metaphor use in economic news. International Journal of Current Science Research and Review ISSN: 2581-8341 Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 DOI: 10.47191/ijcsrr/V8-i12-27, Impact Factor: 8.048 IJCSRR @ 2025 www.ijcsrr.org 6169 *Corresponding Author: Long Thanh Nguyen Volume 08 Issue 12 December 2025 Available at: www.ijcsrr.org Page No. 6161-6175 The overall distribution demonstrates several important tendencies. First, English economic journalism relies heavily on structural, orientational, and ontological metaphors, which provide intuitive cognitive frames for explaining abstract phenomena. Second, the presence of conventional and creative metaphors reflects the narrative orientation of economic reporting, aiming to present economic developments as stories involving movement, change, or evaluation. Third, the lower frequency of image and similarity-based metaphors suggests that these types are reserved for contexts requiring rhetorical amplification or stylistic emphasis. This distribution also has implications for the translation process. Since a large portion of metaphors in economic news belong to categories that are widely shared across languages and cultures—particularly structural, orientational, and ontological metaphors—many of them can be rendered into Vietnamese with relatively high conceptual equivalence. Conversely, metaphor types with lower frequency, such as creative, image, and similarity-based metaphors, often require more careful consideration during translation due to their stylistic novelty or culture-specific imagery. The analysis of metaphor frequency and distribution provides an essential foundation for examining how these metaphors are translated in the Vietnamese versions of the articles. To illustrate the characteristics and translation of each metaphor type more concretely, the next section presents Table 4.2, which includes selected examples extracted from the corpus along with their Vietnamese equivalents and brief explanations. Table 4.2 Some examples to illustrate the metaphorical expressions found in the English economic news articles Metaphor Type Example (English) Vietnamese Translation M1 – Structural Metaphor “Automation threatens to block the ascent of Asia’s poor.” Source: This economic model organized Asia for decades. Now it’s broken. — Clenfield, 2017 (Bloomberg). “Tự động hóa đe dọa chặn bước chân của những người nghèo ở châu Á.” Nguồn: Robot sẽ tiêu diệt mô hình kinh tế châu Á — Minh Đức, 2017 (Tuổi Trẻ). Explanation: Conceptualizes economic mobility as vertical movement (ascent). Automation becomes a physical obstacle blocking upward development. M2 – Orientational Metaphor “The government lowered its annual production target for coal.” Source: India, Once a Coal Goliath, Is Fast Turning Green — Anand, 2017 (NYT). “Chính phủ đã hạ mục tiêu sản xuất than hàng năm.” Nguồn: Tín hiệu xanh từ Ấn Độ — Minh Đức, 2017 (Tuổi Trẻ). Explanation: “Lowered” reflects the mapping LESS IS DOWN. Vietnamese “hạ” preserves the same orientational metaphor. M3 – Ontological Metaphor “India could rely on renewable sources for all its additional power needs.” Source: India, Once a Coal Goliath, Is Fast Turning Green — Anand, 2017 (NYT). “Ấn Độ có thể dựa vào các nguồn năng lượng tái tạo cho những nhu cầu bổ sung.” Nguồn: Tín hiệu xanh từ Ấn Độ — Minh Đức, 2017 (Tuổi Trẻ). Explanation: “Rely on” objectifies energy sources as physical supports. Vietnamese “dựa vào” maintains the metaphorical ontology. M4 – Conventional Metaphor “The bill for these commitments will soon become unsustainable.” Source: The Old Are Eating the Young — Das, 2017 (Bloomberg). “Hóa đơn cho những cam kết này sớm sẽ trở nên khó chi trả.” Nguồn: Chia rẽ thế hệ: Thế hệ mai sau ăn gì? — Das, 2017 (Tuổi Trẻ Cuối Tuần). Explanation: A conventional metaphor treating consequences as financial bills. Vietnamese preserves the same conceptual mapping. M5 – Creative (Novel) Metaphor “As in Francisco Goya’s painting, Saturn Devouring His Son, today, the old are eating their children.” Source: The Old Are Eating the Young — Das, 2017 (Bloomberg). “Tương tự bức tranh ‘Saturn đang ăn thịt con trai mình’…, ngày nay người già đang ‘ăn’ những đứa con của mình.” Nguồn: Chia rẽ thế hệ: Thế hệ mai sau ăn gì? — Tuổi Trẻ Cuối Tuần, 2017.