Cognitive Interpretation on Typological Framework of Motion Event in Chinese Language

Abstract

Beginning with motion conceptualization and linguistic representation, the article testified Talmy’s dichotomy as well as Slobin’s trichotomy typological frameworks with attempt to figure out the typological framework of motion event in Chinese language. Different categories of languages presents discrepancy in representation methods in motion event frame. It is revealed that Most Chinese motion event lexicalization patterns follow S-framed language type, while a small group of motion events adopt E-framed language expression way. In addition, V-framed takes the smallest share which can not be neglected. Therefore, Chinese is not a pure S-framed language, yet embodies both S-framed and E-framed language characteristics. Chinese illustrates more S-framed and then E-framed language characteristics, which indicates the complexity of Chinese motion events representation.