Modern Chinese, "the Degree Adverb + Noun" Combinations

In traditional grammar, adverb can only be used to modify verb or adjective and cannot be used to modify noun in modern Chinese. But in recently years, "intensifier + noun" constructions such as "fei chang shen shi" (quite gentleman), "hen zhong guo" (very China) appear very frequently in our spoken and written language. The thesis focuses on "intensifier + noun" constructions with a base on semantic analysis of intensifier and noun.The paper contains 7 chapters:Chapter One:introduction. It introduces the object, methods, purpose and significance of the study. Source of the language material used in the paper is also explained in this part.Chapter Two:review of past research. It sorts out research on "intensifier + noun" constructions made before, summing up their accomplishments while pointing out their limitations.Chapter Three:analysis of intensifier of "intensifier + noun" constructions. On the basis of the research about intensifier before, intensifier can be divided into two kinds:relative intensifier and absolute intensifier. The intensifiers of "intensifier + noun" constructions are almost absolute intensifier which means an obvious departure from a norm.Chapter Four:analysis of noun of "intensifier + noun" constructions. Referring to the research of Yang Yonglin(2000), noun can be divided into two kinds:gradable noun and nongradable noun. The meanings of nongradable nouns which can be used in these constructions are quite abundant. It can be explained by the theory of metonymy.Chapter Five:analysis of the reason of the use of "intensifier + noun" constructions. "Intensifier + noun" construction has a close relationship with "intensifier + adjective" construction, and it based on our abilities of analogy and creativity.Chapter Six:analysis of vagueness of "intensifier + noun" constructions.Chapter Seven:conclusion. This chapter reviews the whole paper, analyzing its achievement and limitation.