Journal of Northeastern University(Social Science) ›› 2018, Vol. 20 ›› Issue (1): 99-104.DOI: 10.15936/j.cnki.1008-3758.2018.01.015

• Linguistics and Literature • Previous Articles     Next Articles

On SFL's Semogenesis and Its Roots in Biological Evolution

ZHOU Hai-ming1,2   

  1. (1. School of Foreign Languages, Soochow University, Suzhou 215006, China; 2. School of Foreign Languages, Yancheng Teachers University, Yancheng 224002, China)
  • Received:2017-06-10 Revised:2017-06-10 Online:2018-01-25 Published:2018-01-19
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Abstract: Semogenesis in SFL serves as a diachronic paradigm for approaching meaning, which models the evolution of language system and discourse patterns, particularly the way in which language helps social functions evolve through meaning-making processes. The Chinese version of “semogenesis” well reflects the original connotations, foregrounding the theoretical position of meaning and evolution in SFL. Semogenesis finds its roots in Darwin’s theory and functionary evolution can be seen as one of the essences of SFL. The theoretic core, Chinese translation and theoretical origin of semogenesis are examined for a deeper understanding of this paradigm, which may help advance the studies of meaning and reveal the essence of language constructing reality.

Key words: semogenesis, systemic functional linguistics (SFL), M.A.K.Halliday, Charles Robert Darwin

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