Analysis of the Chinese passive/disposal combined-occurrence constructions

Abstract This study uses Bei-Ba constructions as a case study to investigate the Chinese passive/disposal combined-occurrence constructions. By comparing the synchrony and diachrony of the Bei-Ba constructions, it is found that while ancient Bei-Ba constructions have four different types, contemporary Bei-Ba constructions expanded to include a new type (Type III). The reason why Type III Bei-Ba constructions emerged is twofold: the expansion of the scenario in which Bei-Ba constructions reside provides the possibility for the emergence of Type III Bei-Ba constructions; the need for expressing negation leads to the necessity of the emergence of Type III Bei-Ba constructions. Although contemporary Bei-Ba constructions developed a new type, the general tendency of the Bei-Ba constructions is a decrement in both type and token frequency. This process of decrement cannot be avoided by Bei-Ba constructions, because: (1) they are less competitive than similar constructions on the Information Processing Time; (2) their lower frequency further results in their decrement. Theoretically, this study has shed light on the decrement of constructions and uncovered that the two determinants are the principle of economy and frequency.