A Definition Pattern For English Learner?s Dictionaries Based On Schematic Categorization

Definition is the core of dictionaries.Entries are arranged alphabetically in most English dictionaries.As a result,lexical units within the same category are scattered into different parts of the dictionary and it is difficult for learners to find out the semantic relevance among them.At this point of view,it is necessary for dictionary definitions to play an important role in creating semantic relevance among lexical units.Through surveys,in most mainstream English learner's dictionaries,the definition patterns for lexical units within the same category are inconsistent and do not show the association among lexical units,which is hard for learners to acquire these lexical units.Verbs are closely related to human's life and they are often considered as the most difficult lexical units to deal with because of the complex relationship between verbs and their participants.English verbs are scattered in the dictionary and the verbs within the same category are defined with various definition patterns,causing English learners pretty confused.So,more attention should be paid to these problems.Aimed at settling the above problems,categorized definition is put forward to form a uniform pattern for defining motion verbs.The basic mental process of human beings to classify the world according to the resemblance of things is called categorization and it is the most significant aspect of human beings' cognition.Most scholars study the categorized definition from a prototype perspective while the author is going to study the categorized definition of motion verbs based on schema theory.The previous researches very little involve this aspect.Schema is a kind of cognitive model which describes the abstract common features shared by all members within the same category.According to Levin(1993),motion verbs can be divided into seven types,that is,verbs of inherently directed motion;leave verbs;manner of motion verbs;verbs of motion using a vehicle;waltz verbs;chase verbs and accompany verbs.In the present study,four types of these motion verbs are chosen as research subjects.Then,based on schema theory,the schematic features of each motion verb category are illustrated.Next,the definitions of different categories in five mainstream English learner's dictionaries(ELDs)are analyzed and their problems are disclosed.Finally,a uniform definition pattern is established through the deep level of cognition on motion verbs' schematic features.The present study about the improvement of the definitions of motion verbs in ELDs will help learners find out the semantic relevance among motion verbs and help them understand and memorize motion verbs better.To some extent,the research on the definitions of dictionaries can also be promoted further.