论语言任意性与象似性的非平衡性

索绪尔提出的语言符号任意性学说在语言学界一直占据着重要地位。近年来,随着象似性学说研究的深入,这一理论的权威性受到了质疑。在回顾前人研究的基础上,从词汇、句法、语篇和语用等方面论述语言任意性和象似性的非平衡性,认为两者共存于语言符号的统一体中,但任意性主要存在于单个语言符号的语音、形态和词汇层面,而语言作为一个符号系统则遵循象似性原则。

Asymmetric Distribution Between Arbitrariness and Iconicity of Language

Saussure's principle of arbitrariness has long been viewed as a fundamental theory in modern linguistics.Yet recent intensive studies on iconicity challenge the authenticity of the principle of arbitrariness.Reexamining a number of arguments,the asymmetric distribution between arbitrariness and iconicity of language at different linguistic levels isanalyzed.It demonstrates that arbitrariness and iconicity can exist dialectically rather than exclusively in the language system-arbitrariness mainly exists in a single language sign at phonologic,morphologic and lexical levels,while language as a semiotic system generally complies with the principle of iconicity.