Reconsidering Chinese Characters : Types of Chinese Characters Viewed by Chinese Linguists in the 21st Century

Abstract

This study focuses on the analysis of the classification criteria of character types, centering around Chinese characters as discussed in Chinese linguistics since 2000, and examines the terms used in defining character types of Chinese characters. Through this study, major issues concerning the terminology to define the types of Chinese characters are converged into a chosen number of pairs of constrasted concepts such as single classification versus multi-dimensional classification, logograph versus ideo-phonemic writing and word writing versus morphemic writing. Then analyses are conducted on the validity of multi-dimensional classification, the concept of logograph in contrast to the unsuitability of ideo-phonemic writing, and morphemic writing.BR Based on the comprehensive analysis and complementation of the character classification criteria in Chinese linguistics from the perspective of multi-dimensional classification, the criteria for Chinese characters have been reestablished as follows:BR A. relation of script symbols and linguistic factors, e.g. sound and meaning,BR B. elements of language recorded by script symbols,BR C. language formation modes by script symbolsBR D. combination method of script symbols,BR E. originality of writing system.BR According to these criteria, the Chinese characters are classified as logograph, morphemicic writing, linear letter system, syllable-based writing system, and original character type.BR In Chinese linguistics, discussions on the types of Chinese characters have been described within the conceptual frame of the nature of Chinese characters. The attributes of the Chinese character system form the basis for defining the writing types of Chinese characters. However, the definition of terms and concepts with consideration of the various attributes unique of the Chinese character system cannot retain the universality applicable to general graphonomy. Studies on the writing types of Chinese characters should be discussed in the character typological point of view, and the classification criteria and related concepts discussed in this study need be complemented and modified through continued research.