英语中“N+be+adj.+to do”结构与中动结构的语义界定

Semantic Definition between “N+be+adj.+to do” and Middle Construction

传统研究认为,在英语中"NVA"是典型的中动结构,即N为动作的受事者,动词V与程度副词A构成修饰关系,表明N的属性。根据Lekakou(2002)对中动结构核心元素的解释,英语中的"N+be+adj.+to do"结构从语义学角度属于中动结构。通过从语义学和句法结构角度对中动结构的构式意义进行分析,解析"N+be+adj.+to do"与该结构的相同之处,阐述两者的语义界定。

Traditional research puts forward that“NVA”is the typical middle construction, in which N as the subject, stands for the agent of one action; The verb V connects the adverb A to modify N, showing the generic of N. According to Lekakou’s (2003) interpretation of core elements in middle construction, it is supposed that the construction of“N+be+adj.+to do”falls into the category of middle construction. From the respects of semantics and syntax, this paper goes into the similarities between the construction of“N+be+adj.+to do”and the middle construction in addition to its explanation to cast light on the view-point that the former belongs to the latter.