Semantic Features of Structure on “V/A+得+满+Nm+X”

Abstract

This paper investigates the number of syllables and semantic features of verbs and adjectives that can form the structure of “V/A+得+满+Nm+X”. It is found that verbs or adjectives that conform to the structure are mostly monosyllabic, and majority of them are monosyllabic verbs. Research shows that volitional verbs are more often found in this structure, it could be due to that fact that [volitional] and [action] are volitional verb`s semantic features, which make them more likely to follow with a complement. Non-volitional verbs have semantic properties, resulting in them less likely to follow with a complement. Durative verbs and perpetuating adjectives are more likely to appear in the “V/A+得+满 +Nm+X” structure than non-durative verbs and non-perpetuating adjectives, whereas instant adjectives are not able to fit into the structure at all. This is mainly due to “满”`s modal characteristics, as “满” not only expresses the accomplishment-type event, and but also the state of the event. Semantically, non-durative verbs have the feature of strong momentum, where the release of such momentum will result in the state or achieve “full control” of the state instantaneously. Therefore, it can form the “V/A+ 得+ 满+Nm+X” structure. However, instant adjectives’ time structure belongs to the dot structure, thus making them difficult to accommodate a relatively stable continuation of the process and therefore cannot enter the structure.