COGNITIVE LINGUISTICS AS ONE OF THE MODERN DIRECTIONS OF LINGUISTICS

This article examines cognitive linguistics as one of the prominent directions of modern linguistic science. It focuses on the theoretical foundations of cognitive linguistics, its interdisciplinary nature, and its role in understanding the relationship between language, thought, and human cognition. The study highlights key concepts such as conceptualization, categorization, mental representation, and metaphor as central mechanisms through which language reflects cognitive processes. Special attention is given to the ways cognitive linguistics differs from traditional structural approaches by emphasizing meaning, usage, and experiential knowledge. The paper also explores how cognitive linguistic frameworks contribute to contemporary linguistic research, including discourse analysis, language teaching, and cross-cultural communication. The findings suggest that cognitive linguistics provides a comprehensive and dynamic perspective for analyzing language as a reflection of human cognitive activity.