Analysis Of Pragmatic Functions And Learning Survey Of Chinese Cultural Markers

Chinese cultural markers (CCMs) are so pervasively used in Chinese daily language. They do not have semantic true value but term Chinese cultural background and characteristics of Chinese speech. The smooth progress of verbal communication is practically ensured. In Chinese conversation, CCMs have strong pragmatic complexity because their pragmatic functions are implicit rather than explicit. It is very difficult for a listener to obtain the correct information if lack of background. The aim of this paper is to study this linguistic phenomenon and analyse the factors which affect the use and mastery of CCMs. Main research work is as follows.Concept of CCMs is defined and three characteristics that distinguish CCMs from ordinary Chinese markers are put forward. Based on the theory of Kecskes and Zhang's socio-cultural communication and assumed common ground, the mechanism of CCMs' pragmatic functions is explained. Five concrete examples are presented to analyse the pragmatic functions of CCMs (Promoting mutual reciprocity between interlocutors, Weakening the strong tones in speech, Hiding interlocutor's true feelings, Alleviating negative expressions, Smoothening the progress of discourse) and their cultural connotations by method of language logic. Through questionnaire survey, the information of foreign students' use and mastery of CCMs can be obtained. Based on method of hypothesis testing, the implications for the use and mastery of CCMs generated by nationality, gender, age, Chinese level and the length of time in China are analysed.