Interpretation of Linguistic- Cultural Signs: A Scenario for Acquiring a Foreign Language within Context of Cultural Appeal

This article addresses challenges in interpreting linguistic-cultural units by highlighting the heuristic potential of cultural layers as representations of mental comprehension of reality and typical forms of cultural knowledge. It introduces an analytical methodology for studying language elements that function as cultural symbols. Through empirical research, we reconstruct a scenario for interpreting verbal signs of culture consisting of six stages, each associated with specific cognitive operators. We demonstrate how this interpretive algorithm can be applied to Russian and Serbian examples. Our findings indicate that such interpretation results in an interpretant, which is expressed through accurate understanding and appropriate use of cultural signs. Additionally, we explore the cognitive capacity of linguistic-cultural signs — including symbols, prototypes, naive measures, amulets, and names of nonexistent phenomena — and propose a typology of cultural layers emphasizing their link to speakers' cognitive experience. We argue that language acquisition is closely tied to developing cultural-linguistic competence, enabling proper perception and reproduction of cultural symbols. Furthermore, it is shown that interpreting these symbols requires consideration of broader contexts and extensive background knowledge. Key characteristics of linguistic-cultural signs reflecting fundamental aspects of national worldview and value orientations are identified. Finally, it is demonstrated that mastery of these signs enhances intercultural communication and deepens understanding of national identity. Importantly, systematic investigation into cultural layers and integration of our proposed method into foreign-language instruction (such as Russian or Serbian) are advocated.