| This study investigates the use of the discourse marker well in spoken English. Previous studies show a great deal of disagreement with regards to the function and meaning of well in conversation. The aim of the present study is to provide a comprehensive description of the semantic and pragmatic properties of well. Furthermore, a relatively more complete and concrete classification of its functions is proposed.The study investigates the functions of well using a large number of extended examples taken from the British National Corpus. Each function will be analysed extensively and a detailed interpretation provided in the study of its meaning in different discourse contexts. The core function of well, as a marker of relevance, and its core meaning of the positive appraisal of prior discourse or a situation, will be proposed. Finally, the relationship between discourse marker (DM) well and adverb well is explained through the theory of grammaticalization.In conclusion, based on the findings of the present study, implications for further research in relevant areas are discussed, including the study of spoken discourse, teaching of conversational English and translation of English works. Some suggestions are also made for future research in this area.
|
PDF Full Text Request