A Study on the Generalization of the ‘X一个’ Construction

This paper examines the generalization phenomenon of the ‘X一个’ construction, highlighting its flexibility and creativity in both form and semantics. Formally, ‘X’ is no longer limited to common nouns (N1) but can also be composed of other nominal components(N2, N3), adjectival components, and verbal components. Semantically, the ‘X一个’ construction can not only denote quantity but also convey subjective evaluations and actions. This formal and semantic generalization enables the construction to fulfill various communicative functions in different linguistic contexts. Through diachronic analysis, this paper reveals specific manifestations of the construction’s evolution along two lines: towards subjective evaluations and towards actions. As these lines develop, the construction shows a trend from an endocentric construction to an exocentric construction. Additionally, from the perspective of construction grammar, this paper provides a rationale for the generalization of the ‘X一个’ construction, identifying three main inheritance relationships: IM, IP, and IS. Furthermore, factors frequently mentioned in construction grammar, such as the principle of linguistic economy, Coercion, Neoanalysis, Pragmatic salience, Analogical thinking and Analogization, contribute to the increased productivity and schematicity of this construction. The generalization of the ‘X一个’ construction reflects the dynamic evolution of language, demonstrating language users’ continuous innovation and adjustment in expressing their communicative needs.