On The Functions Of English Idiom Variations

Idioms are an indispensable part of English language. Although fixedness is one of their most important features, variation of English idioms is widespread. Since much past work related to idiom variations is only concerned with some broad categorization of different types of variations, their functions are relatively neglected. Therefore, a much fuller treatment to this subject is needed.This thesis sets out to explore the functions of English idiom variations by drawing upon Halliday's Functional Grammar. After a brief introduction and literature review, a detailed description of English idiom variations is provided. Variations are classified into two broad types: normal variation and nonce variation. Under both headings, examples are cited to illustrate the specific ways of variation. And motivations of nonce variations are also dealt with. Afterwards, functions of idiom variations are explored by citing examples from authentic language materials. It is argued that idiom variations are an effective resource for realizing interpersonal meanings and helping to construct coherent texts. As for the interpersonal function, two aspects are discussed: interactive and personal. It is proved that idiom variations are active in eliciting direct response, serving as a membershipping device, building up informal context and reflecting the efforts of speakers to negotiate meanings together on the one hand, retaining or renegotiating original evaluation and strengthening or mitigating the original metaphor on the other. As for the textual function, it is emphasized that idiom variations are effective in creating coherent text by establishing cohesive ties with context and organizing texts by shifting the thematic structure of a sentence or serving as topic sentence or summary of the text as they show up in the position of hyperTheme, macroTheme and hyperNew. Then, in the final stage of the thesis, the pedagogical implications of this research are analyzed and suggestions are put forward to improve idiom teaching.