Precedent situations in figurative system of modern Russian comparison

The precedent situations as one of the brightest features of the modern Russian language are examined on the material obtained from more than 6200 comparative phrasiological constructions thoroughly selected from the works of fiction, mass media, oral speeches, etc. Comparisons rich with precedent situations are very bright and reflect the attitude of the language personality toward the most significant, in his or her view, events of the history, politics, etc. Analysis of the appeals to different historical situations helps to understand and assess the depth of love and knowledge commanded by native speakers. Most frequently, the language personality appeals to historical situations. The Great Patriotic War is the most significant source of precedent situations for comparison. A lot of the Great Patriotic War episodes play the role of symbols. References to the events of American history speak of good knowledge of the history of one of the foreign countries and may also indicate Americanization of the modern language personality; enhancement of the influence of the U.S culture, history, and politics on the system of cultural codes inherent to the average Russian citizen. Moreover, a creator of the comparison contributes to the increase of the addressee’s cultural level.