The constructionalization of the Chinese continuous simile construction “ <i>Ru A Si B</i> ”: research conducted from the novel standpoint of conceptual integration

Abstract The continuous simile construction “ ru A si B ” is a distinctive phenomenon in Chinese that has not been previously studied. This article provides a detailed analysis of the formation of its form-meaning pairing from the perspective of Conceptual Integration Theory. “ Ru A si B ” is identified as a polysemous construction with multiple origins. This study proposes four diachronic integration pathways: “ X ru A + Y si B → ru A si B ”, “ ru AB xiangsi/si → ru A si B ”, “ rusi + AB → ru A si B ”, and “ ru + si A si B → ru A si B ”. The validity and feasibility of these integrations are substantiated through in-depth analysis of linguistically derivative evidence from both diachronic and synchronic evolutionary processes, supported by relevant statistical data and phonetic experiments. This methodology offers a novel avenue for future research in diachronic construction grammar. Beyond reanalysis and analogy, this article innovatively proposes several new mechanisms characteristic of the Chinese language, such as prosodic rhythm, tonal patterns (平仄), structural symmetry, and the implicit adhesion resulting from the separation of disyllabic words. These contributions are of significant importance for enriching and expanding the theory and methodology of constructionalization.