程度表現「ＰどころかＱ」における反期待の構造

Abstract

This paper examines the sentence “P dokoroka Q”. We use this sentence to emphasize Q by negating P and showing the degree of difference between the two. In this study, the purpose is to observe the semantic function by elucidating how it differs from other comparative constructions in the way in which P and Q are treated. Results of the analysis show that the value of Q is the opposite of the direction of expectation on the scale of the degree of expectation presumed when P is set. In other words, the value of Q is characterized as anti-expectation. The fact that Q is the direct converse of the direction of expectation produces the effect of emphasizing the difference of degree. Also, if a particular direction of anti-expectation does not need, and only the fact that the proposition is not in an expected condition needs to be shown, the expression employed would be “P dokorodewanai” In either case, the intention of the expression is produced by the negation of the movement toward the direction of expectation that is presumed when P is set.