A Study of the Lexical Construct “X-Gate” Based on the “Small Triangle” Theory

本文基于“小三角”理论，对网络流行语“X门”进行研究。“X门”是一种半图式性词法构式，其韵律形式以双音节为主，整体具有名词性特征，可充当主语、宾语及定语，且可作独立单句。“X门”所传达的“群体集合”的构式义形成与核心构件“门”的语义虚化密切相关，“门”的语义经历“门派–派别–群体区别–阵营认同”的虚化过程。“门”的语义演化也使该词法构式具有焦点定位的语用功能，即侧显“X”从而引发认知入场，此外，也可传达使用者立场以形成结盟。“X门”的流行和传播是其表现型模因的网络特性要求和虚拟实际手段的情感驱动，以及使用者从众心理及寻求群体认同感共同促动的结果。 Based on the “Small Triangle” theory, this paper studies the Internet buzzword “X-gate”. “X-gate” is a semi-figurative lexical construction, whose metrical form is mainly bisyllabic, with overall noun characteristics, which can serve as subject, object and determiner, and can be used as an independent single sentence. The formation of the compositional meaning of “group collection” conveyed by “X-gate” is closely related to the semantic deflation of the core component “door”. The semantics of “gate” undergoes the process of “sect-faction-group distinction-camp identity”. The semantic evolution of “gate” also gives the lexical construction the pragmatic function of focalization, i.e., to side-step “X” to trigger cognitive entry, and to convey users’ stance in order to form an alliance. The popularity and spread of “X-gate” is the result of the network characteristic requirement of its expressive modality and the emotional drive of its virtual reality means, as well as the herd mentality of its users and their search for group identity.