Abstract
Abstract The present paper is devoted to the study of the linguocognitive aspect of the frame ‘matchmaking’ in Kazakh and Chinese cultures in order to identify the peculiarities of cognitive structuring of this frame and analyse its influence on the perception of the marriage ceremony by the speakers of these cultures. In this article, the following methods were used: lexicographic and lexical analysis and questionnaire survey. The results of the study showed that in both cultures, the frame ‘matchmaking’ serves as a cognitive model that determines the behavioural and emotional expectations of the participants, contributing to the coherence of their actions and the formation of social consensus. In Kazakh culture, the frame emphasizes the importance of mutual consent and social agreements, whereas in Chinese culture the emphasis is on observing rituals, astrological alignment and demonstrating respect for elders and ancestors. The matchmaking frame upholds cultural norms and traditions and enshrines specific social roles such as matchmakers (mediators), the receiving party (bride’s family) and the applicant party (groom’s family), each with unique cognitive functions and meaning in the ritual. In the Chinese context, the function of astrologers and elders, who play an important role in making final decisions about marriage, is added.