Exhaustivity, Contrastivity, and the Semantics of Mandarin Cleft-related Structures

Exhaustivity,Contrastivity,and the Semantics of Mandarin Cleft-related Structures explores the semantics of Mandarin cleft and related structures,aiming to understand what clefting adds to sentence meaning,distinguish between discourse functions,and provide a uniform analysis. It addresses questions about the semantics of Mandarin clefts,the contributions of exhaustivity and contrastivity,factors determining variation,and cross-linguistic differences compared to similar constructions in English,French,and German.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 30 December 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Exhaustivity, Contrastivity, and the Semantics of Mandarin Cleft-related Structures delves into the intricate realm of the semantics of Mandarin cleft and cleft-related structures, a subject that has posed significant analytical challenges for semantic theory over the years. With a three-fold objective, this book aims to unravel the multifaceted contributions of clefting to sentence semantics, distinguish the meanings and discourse functions of different types of cleft-related structures, and present a unified analysis of Mandarin clefts and their related constructs.

In more specific terms, the book addresses a series of critical questions. It seeks to understand the semantics of Mandarin clefts, exploring the intricacies of their meanings and functions. It also examines the role of exhaustivity and contrastivity in shaping the interpretation of clefts, shedding light on the semantic factors that determine the variation and distribution of clefts, related structures, and canonical sentences. Furthermore, the book explores the cross-linguistic differences and similarities between Mandarin clefts and similar constructions in languages such as English, French, and German, shedding light on the unique linguistic characteristics and pragmatic implications of these constructions.

This comprehensive book is of immense value to linguists engaged in the study of cleft constructions and those interested in exploring sensitive structures cross-linguistically. It offers a rich and detailed account of the semantics of Mandarin cleft and related structures, providing insights into the complex interplay between language, cognition, and meaning. With its rigorous scholarship and accessible writing style, Exhaustivity, Contrastivity, and the Semantics of Mandarin Cleft-related Structures is a valuable resource for both academic researchers and practitioners in the field of linguistics.

Weight: 356g
Dimension: 233 x 156 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367631451