Asymmetry and Markedness Theory I: Affirmation and Negation

by Shen Jiaxuan

Overview

This first volume explores asymmetry in language by examining how affirmative and negative constructions reveal markedness phenomena.

Building on the focus of the larger set, this volume first introduces the theoretical framework and key concepts of markedness theory and then applies them to affirmation-negation dynamics. It discusses unmarked versus marked negation, polarity words, and the gradual weakening of affirmative-negative contrasts, showing how these patterns reflect deeper connections between language, cognition, and semantics.

This volume will benefit linguists, language educators, and researchers interested in language structure and function, particularly in Chinese linguistics, markedness theory, and cross-linguistic inquiry.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781041094401
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	09/25/2025
Series:	Chinese Linguistics
Pages:	244
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)

About the Author

Shen Jiaxuan is Professor of Linguistics at the Institute of Linguistics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. His main research interests include Chinese grammar, English–Chinese comparative grammar, and general linguistic theory. His recent publications with Routledge include Nouns and Verbs in Chinese I: Facts and Theories and Nouns and Verbs in Chinese II: Consequences and Prospects.

Table of Contents

1. Theoretical Prerequisites and Methodological Issues  2. Markedness Theory  3. Asymmetry between Affirmation and Negation  4. Unmarked Negation and Marked Negation  5. chàbùduō and chàdiǎnr  6. Affirmation and Negation of Polarity Words  7. The Neutralization of the Negative-Affirmative Opposition