Asymmetry and Markedness Theory I

<p>This first volume explores asymmetry in language by examining how affirmative and negative constructions reveal markedness phenomena.</p><p>Building on the focus of the larger set this volume first introduces the theoretical framework and key concepts of markedness theory and then applies them to affirmation-negation dynamics. It discusses unmarked versus marked negation polarity words and the gradual weakening of affirmative-negative contrasts showing how these patterns reflect deeper connections between language cognition and semantics.</p><p>This volume will benefit linguists language educators and researchers interested in language structure and function particularly in Chinese linguistics markedness theory and cross-linguistic inquiry.</p>