轻声的特征和轻声词的规范原则

Properties of Neutral Tone and Its Standardization Principles

本文指出轻声的基本特征是听起来轻,轻的根本原因是音长短,而稳固地失去原字调是轻声区别于一般轻读的区别性特征;但因许多轻声的非功能性和方音的影响等原因,不少轻声可轻读也可重读。基于此,本文提出了轻声词规范的三条原则,即严守轻声的特征;区分轻声与轻音;设立"可轻声"。要研制出一个大的轻声词汇表作为高级标准,但可针对不同对象要求掌握不同数量的轻声词。

This paper points out that the features of neutral tone include weak stress, short duration and the steady lose of its original tone. Given its non-functionality and the influence of dialect,neutral tone can be found stressed in some cases. As such,we propose three principles for neutral note standardization,namely,strictly sticking to the properties of neutral tone, and making distinction between from neutral tone and articulated weak stress,and allowing a position for 'optional neutral tone'. This paper also argues that an advanced standard list of neutral tone words is needed,which is open to choice for different needs and different people.