| dc.description.abstract | The present study investigates the polysemy of the motion verb LOK in the Hu-Nan Ping-Jiang Hakka dialect. The topics discussed include the multiple usages, the semantic extensions, the grammaticalization, and the comparison of LOK in the Hu-Nan Ping-Jiang Hakka dialect with other related Chinese dialects. In chapter 1, the introduction, we touch upon the origin and geographical distribution of the Hu-Nan Hakka dialect; the population and spread of all of the dialects in Hu-Nan; and the phonetic system of the Ping-Jiang Hakka
dialect. In chapter 2, the literature review, we introduce the background to the theories,
including prototype theory, image schema, perspective, profile, metaphor, metonymy and
grammaticalization. Then, we review other studies of LOK in other Chinese dialects. In
chapter 3, we discuss the relationship between the various usages and senses of LOK. In
chapter 4, the semantic extensions and grammaticalization paths of LOK are explored in depth.
Through a comprehensive analysis of the relevant data, in chapter 5, a comparison of the
usages, senses and grammaticalization paths of LOK in the Hu-Nan Ping-Jiang Hakka dialect
with other Chinese dialects is carried out. In chapter 6, the conclusion, the discoveries are
rounded out, and there is a comparison of the similarities and peculiarities of LOK in Hu-Nan
Ping-Jiang Hakka dialect with the other Chinese dialects. Lastly, the limitations and
deficiencies of this study are presented, as well as the possible future development of the
subject.
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