Imperative sentences in Mandarin conversation

My MA thesis consists in the use of imperative sentences in Mandarin Chinese conversation. I plan to collect 9 hours of video data and analyze the actions speakers perform when they imperatives in naturally occurring Mandarin conversation. Based on grammar books, the imperative sentences perform a command, however an observation of everyday Mandarin conversation has shown that it is not always the case. When speakers use the imperatives in the speech, they construct this type of sentences both verbally and nonverbally. In order to explain the actions imperative sentences perform, grammar, sound patterns and bodily-visual movements have to be included in the research. The consideration of all the components speakers use in producing the imperative sentences will uncover the real actions which are performed by the participants in the conversation.

Faculty Supervisor:

Xiaoting Li

Student:

Partner:

Chinese Academy of Social Sciences

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Education

University:

University of Alberta

Program: