Abstract: Shi(是) is a locative preposition as well as an existential verb in Ou dialect, Hakka dialect part of Hui dialect (徽语) and Yue dialect (粤语). It was at the late middle age that Shi(是) developed into an existential verb from its copular use, and then became a preposition. The grammaticalization of the copula Shi(是) mainly resulted from four aspects:the subcategory transform of NP in equational sentences, and the change of word order, construction and tone. Further more, the meaning and function of its original demonstrative use are related to the development of existential verb from copular Shi(是).
Publication Year: 2006
Publication Date: 2006-01-01
Language: en
Type: article
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