THE ROLE OF HUMAN COGNITION IN THE MANIFESTATION OF CONTRADICTORY RELATIONS IN REALITY THROUGH SYNTACTIC ANTONYMS IN LANGUAGE

Abstract

The problem of how contradictions in reality are reflected in human cognition and expressed in language is considered a fundamental issue in linguistics, semiotics, and philosophy. However, the realization of oppositional relations in syntactic antonyms has only been partially addressed in the works of scholars such as Ferdinand de Saussure, R.Jakobson, N. Chomsky, G. Lakoff and M. Johnson, and C. Levi-Strauss, while in Russian linguistics it was briefly noted by V. V. Vinogradov, Y. Stepanov, and A. N. Juravlyov, without becoming a separate object of research. Therefore, analyzing this phenomenon from a linguo-cognitive perspective remains a pressing scientific task. The article explores the manifestation of contradictory relations in language, particularly through syntactic antonyms, within a linguo-cognitive framework. Opposition and contradiction are recognized as essential logical foundations of human thought, and antonymy, accordingly, holds significance not only at the lexical but also at the syntactic level. Syntactic antonyms reflect oppositional relations between grammatical constructions, representing contradictions in the linguistic system and enhancing communicative effectiveness. Special attention is given to the role of human cognition, emphasizing that the formation and use of syntactic antonyms are closely tied to cognitive processes. As individuals perceive the world, they generalize oppositional phenomena as logical categories and express them through language. In this process, syntactic antonyms serve communicative needs by delivering contradictions concisely and effectively, while also functioning as a means of emphasis. The article also examines the communicative functions of contradictory and contrary oppositions in syntactic structures, their role in discourse practices, and their realization across different social and stylistic contexts. The conclusion establishes that syntactic antonyms are one of the most important linguistic devices for representing contradictions in reality, organizing knowledge, developing logical reasoning, and enriching communication. The findings of this study provide both theoretical and practical value for further linguo-cognitive research.