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In:At the Crossroads of Historical and Cognitive Linguistics
Edited by Anna Rogos-Hebda and Heli Tissari
[Figurative Thought and Language 21] 2026
► pp. 222–242

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Changes in the conceptualization of “face” in Polish from the 19th century to the present day

 | University of Warsaw
 | University of Warsaw
Published online: 29 January 2026
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https://doi.org/10.1075/ftl.21.10zaw
Abstract
This paper analyzes the evolution of metaphors referring to “face” in Polish from the 19th century to the present. We argue that diachronic analysis allows us to enhance and complete cognitive linguistics research. We argue that there is no evidence that in 19th-century Polish, “face” indicated honor. It appears to be an early 20th-century Chinese loanword (and concept) that came to Polish via French but was adopted much later, via English. This case shows why historical cognitive linguistics and synchronic cognitive linguistics need each other. Thanks to a historical perspective, it is possible to assess the durability of specific metaphorical schemes, trace their evolution resulting from cultural and social changes, and detect the emergence of new, trans-lingual conceptualizations.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.The scope of the study and the theoretical assumptions
  • 3.Resources
  • 4.A concept from Asia — adaptation to Polish and evolution
  • 5.Face as a carrier of honor or dignity in Polish today
  • 6.Dignity and honor compared to a new loan
  • 7.A concept in two domains — assimilated, yet still alien
  • 8.Conclusion
  • Notes
  • References
References (35)
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