英汉语序中的认知差异

Different Cognition Reflected in English and Chinese Word Order

从认识模式分析,英语采用的是自下而上的模式,即从部分到整体;汉语采用的是自上而下的模式,即把句子作为一个整体来理解。正确认识并掌握其起因会帮助交际顺利进行,避免错误。依据认知语言学的观点,语言与认知关系密切,相互依赖。英汉语序的差异是由信息处理过程中的图形/背景模式的不同取向造成的。这一结论被英汉语序两个层面的对比所证明,对英语学习和使用者的交际亦有指导意义。

The difference in English and Chinese word order can often result in obstacles and misunderstanding in communication. To know the cause for the difference is important for successful communication. Cognitive linguistics hold that languages and cognition are closely related and dependent. The author puts forward that different word order lies in different choice of figure/ground patterns. This conclusion is proved by the comparison between English and Chinese word order on two hierarchies. It provides instructions for English learners and users in their communication.