Overview

Chinese Idioms provides a theoretical framework for understanding idioms in the Chinese language, tracing their origins and analyzing their linguistic evolution. This work broadens the definition of idioms to encompass fixed phrases comprising two or more characters, thereby distinguishing them from common sayings and proverbs. Integrating linguistic theories with traditional textual research, it examines the structural features and practical value of idioms from the perspectives of semantic evolution, phonetic characteristics, and real-world application. It also cautions against confusing later usage with original sources. Through detailed case studies comparing the prevalent four-character pattern with atypical, shorter phrases, the book unveils the morphological diversity and evolutionary intricacy of Chinese idiomatic expressions. Grounded in extensive examples from classical texts, this work will serve scholars and students of Chinese linguistics, as well as Chinese language learners, offering an analytical system that balances rigorous academic inquiry with practical usage.

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9781041313557

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Liu Jiexiu, a renowned linguist, is a researcher at the Institute of Linguistics, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences. As a specialist in the study of Chinese idioms and lexicography, he was awarded the “Lifetime Achievement Award in Lexicography” by the China Lexicographical Society in 2006.

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