Abstract

In English conversations, we sometimes come across the linguistic phenomenon in which “it” is used where “this” according to the grammar should be used. So this essay aims to analyze why this shift from deictic “this” to anaphoric “it” should occur. Based on the hierarchy model, topic-continuity model, cognitive model and pragmatic model proposed to approach anaphora, this essay applies these four models to both anaphora and deixis. That is to say, this essay will explain the shift from deictic “this” to anaphoric “it” from these four perspectives, so that we could better clarify the similarities and distinctions between these two terms. And also hidden reasons behind this shift will be revealed.

Keywords: anaphora; deixis; this; it; shift  

Contents

Abstract

摘  要

1. Introduction-1

1.1Research background-1

1.2 Aims and Significance of the study-1

1.3 Research questions-2

1.4 Structure of the study-2

2. Literature review-3

2.1 Review of the study of anaphora-3

2.2 Review of the study of deixis-4

3. Contrastive and comparative study of anaphora and deixis-6

3.1 The similarities between anaphora and deixis-6

3.1.1 Forms or expressions of reference-6

3.1.2 Contextualization-6

3.2 The differences between anaphora and deixis-7

4. A shift from deictic “this” to anaphoric “it”-10

4.1 The hierarchy model-10

4.2 The topic continuity model-10

4.3 The cognitive model-12

4.4 The pragmatic model-13

4.5 Summary-15

5. Conclusion-16

5.1 Summary of this essay-16

5.2 Pedagogical implications-16

5.3 Limitations and further research-16

References-17