Derivation Paths of the Indefinite Quantifier ‘yidian’ in Modern Chinese

This article mainly analyzes the extension pathways of the Indefinite quantifie ‘一點’, mainly through a diachronic analysis, based on the order in which the word ‘點’ appeared in ancient Chinese. It was found that the use of ‘點’ as a quantifier began with the use of ‘borrowed quantifier’. And extended to ‘temporary quantifier’ through metaphorical rhetorical devices. By using the rhetorical technique of temporary quantifiers, all things in the world are metaphorically referred to as ‘一點’, gradually turning them into liquids, gases, sounds, sensations, and finally breaking free from the metaphorical rhetorical technique, extending to indefinite quantifies that can modify restrictive verbs. The conclusion was drawn that the Indefinite quantifie ‘一點’ should have appeared in the modern Ming Dynasty, correcting the erroneous conclusions of academic experts and scholars.