Information sequencing in modern standard Chinese
Date
1993
Authors
Kirkpatrick, Thomas Andrew
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Abstract
This study sets out to elucidate principles of information sequencing in Modem
Standard Chinese (MSC). It focuses on interrelationships within four areas:
(i) Modifier - mcxlified sequencing.
After a review of treatments of information sequence in Chinese sentence
structure, the principles behind the sequencing of clauses in complex sentences in MSC
are sought. It is shown that the preferred unmarked sequence in these sentences is
subordinate clause - main clause and it is argued that the'TOPIC-CO:MMENT' sequence is
not being followed in these sentences. The general term 'the BECAUSE-THEREFORE'
sequence is given to this modifier - modified principle. The circumstances under which
the marked sequence can or must be used are also discussed.
(ii) Sequence and persuasion
The order in which speakers of MSC sequence information in spoken
discourse, particularly when they are giving what they hope will be a persuasive
answer to a question, is analysed using data from a seminar and three press
conferences. It is shown that the modifer - modifed 'BECAUSE-THEREFORE' is also
fallowed at this level of discourse.
(iii) Sequence and requesting
The order in which writers sequence information in informal letters of request is
analysed. It is shown that the preferred sequence places the reason(s) for the request(s)
before the requests. The letters of request therefore also follow the 'BECAUSETHEREFORE'
sequence. In addition, the preferred overall schema being followed in
these letters is also described. (iv) Sequence and induction
Methods of reasoning in Chinese are discussed and examples of reasoning in
Chinese analysed to show that Chinese prefers an inductive method of reasoning. It is
argued that this method of reasoning also follows the 'BECAUSE-THEREFORE'
sequence. Reasons for this preference are also suggested.
A discussion concerning the implications of the differences between the
findings for MSC and English concludes the thesis.
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Thesis (PhD)
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DOI
10.25911/5d723a4612aec