Abstract
How is it possible that negation can be expressed without the explicit use of negation markers? This paper answers this question by looking at the cases of implicit negation in different types of yes-no questions in Mandarin Chinese. After arguing that Mandarin Chinese has at least three distinct classes of yes-no questions, and that the three distinct classes form a continuum of semantic features, we consider the sentence-final particle ma (吗), based on its etymology, as a source of the negative meaning in affirmative yes-no questions, or inversion polarity in negative yes-no questions. Finally, we propose that negative yes-no questions can be analysed like English tag questions.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
