A Relevance Theory-based Analysis of Mandarin Chinese Discourse Markers in Oral Speech

Abstract

This study conducts an examination of Mandarin Chinese Discourse Markers (DMs) within oral speech, guided by the Relevance Theory as proposed by Sperber and Wilson (1986). By exploring the pragmatic and semantic layers of DMs, the research clarifies how these linguistic tools streamline communication, ensuring optimal relevance through minimal cognitive effort. The analysis of the research categorizes DMs into eight pragmatic functions, ranging from topic-related markers to illocutionary performatives, each serving distinct roles in enhancing discourse coherence and listener comprehension. This research not only explains the procedural versus conceptual nature of DMs but also reveals a spectrum where Mandarin DMs predominantly exhibit conceptual properties, underlining the critical role of context in DM utilization.