Fathoming the Cultural Schema of Ta’ne in Persian Language: A Cultural Linguistic Study

Abstract

The aim of the present article is to probe the functions of the cultural schema of Ta'ne (sarcasm) in Persian. Results from 100 recorded instantiations of Ta'ne accumulated through ethnographic approach indicated that it served different functions including complaint, criticism, insult, contempt, humor, and compliment. The results were then discussed with reference to the cultural differences in the instantiation of the schema (use of the schema for humorous and complimentary functions) and the other schemas underlying the enactment of Ta'ne. In addition, some implications of the study were discussed with reference to the necessity of the cultural knowledge in order to prevent misunderstandings and miscommunications.