On the Boundary between Designative Subjects and Assertive Subjects: From the Perspective of the Bounded/Unbounded Distinction

Abstract

Using results of previous studies, this paper attempts to explain why designative subject constructions and assertive subject constructions are a syntactic form of opposition and semantically contrary in a “bounded/unbounded” and “marked/unmarked” theory. This paper argues that, under unmarked designative/assertive subject constructions, the designative subjects are usually represented through the predicative constituents that denote unbounded actions and properties, while the assertive subjects are usually represented through the predicative constituents that denote bounded actions and properties. In marked situations, this pattern admits exceptions. Finally, this paper attempts to addresses the correlation between designative subjects, assertive subjects, and its related sentences within the concept of a continuum.