A Contrastive-Semantic Study of Contemporary Idiomatic Expressions in English and Arabic TV Episodes – "Breaking Bad" (English) and "Fauda" (Arabic)

Abstract

This study has tackled the applicability of contrastive-semantic analysis to contemporary idiomatic expressions in English and Arabic television narratives. The present study aims to investigate the semantic meanings, cultural implications, and linguistic structures of idiomatic expressions in selected episodes of the critically acclaimed English TV show ''Breaking Bad'' and the popular Arabic TV series ''Fauda''. The methodology of the study involves both qualitative and quantitative analyses of idiomatic expressions within these shows, conducted through the lens of their socio-cultural contexts. The study is theoretically significant as it identifies the semantic and pragmatic functions of idiomatic expressions in television narratives, while also being practically significant for researchers interested in cross-cultural linguistic studies. It provides valuable data that can be utilised in future research exploring the intersection of language, culture, and media. Finally, as concluded by the present study, it is evident that idiomatic expressions in both ''Breaking Bad'' and ''Fauda'' reflect their respective socio-cultural contexts, with notable similarities and differences emerging from their semantic and pragmatic usage.