From “Xiao si le” to “Xiao fa cai le”: A Study on Semantic Generalization and Pragmatic Innovation of the Modern Chinese “Xiao X le” Structure
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: 本研究基于语言学理论框架，对网络流行语“笑X了”结构进行多维度分析。研究发现，“笑X了”结构由三个核心成分构成：动词“笑” + 补语“X” + 完成体标记“了”，形成独特的框式结构。其中，X作为开放性变量槽位(open slot)，可允许动词性成分(如“喷”“哭”)、形容词性成分(如“傻”“懵”)以及新兴网络词汇等多种语法范畴的填充，该构式化过程充分体现了汉语形态句法的能产性和类推机制，同时也反映了语言使用中的经济性原则和创造性。从语义演变视角观察，“X”成分经历了显著的语义虚化过程，促使整体结构发生语法化。从社会影响看，该结构的流行反映了当代社会的文化心理：追求轻松、幽默的表达方式，同时也在快节奏生活中寻求情感宣泄。Based on a linguistic theoretical framework, this study conducts a multidimensional analysis of the internet buzzword structure “Xiao X le”. The research finds that the “Xiao X le” structure consists of three core components: the verb “Xiao” (laugh) + the complement “X” + the perfective aspect marker “le”, forming a unique frame construction. Within this structure, “X” functions as an open slot, allowing various grammatical categories to fill it, including verbal elements (e.g., “pen”, “ku”), adjectival elements (e.g., “sha”, “meng”), and emerging internet vocabulary. This process of constructionalization fully demonstrates the productivity and analogical mechanisms of Chinese morphosyntax, while also reflecting the principles of economy and creativity in language use. From the perspective of semantic evolution, the “X” component undergoes significant semantic bleaching, driving the grammaticalization of the entire structure. In terms of social impact, the popularity of this structure reflects the cultural psychology of contemporary society: the pursuit of lighthearted and humorous expression, while also seeking emotional catharsis in a fast-paced life.
Source: Modern Linguistics
Author: 伟 金
Institution: Shanghai Normal University
Language: English
Subfield: Language and Linguistics
Field: Arts and Humanities
Domain: Social Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4412946262