ABSTRACT
Is Chinese a subject–verb–object (SVO) language? This chapter presents an argument that, as highlighted by renowned linguists such as Yuen Ren Chao and Lü Shuxiang, Chinese is a topic–comment rather than SVO language. The structures of Chinese topic–comment arrangements are elucidated in a manner accessible to both learners and educators of the Chinese language as well as individuals with an interest in Chinese linguistics. The exposition encompasses various aspects, including the fixed positioning of the topic, its role as a definite reference, and its differentiation from the grammatical subject. The discourse also delves into the most prevalent markers for denoting topics and comments, encompassing singular, multiple, and strings of topics; instances of omission; and other salient characteristics. Interrogative, coordinated, and negative clauses are analyzed in the light of topic–comment, and clauses with bǎ 把 and bèi 被 are introduced as double-topic constructions. Additionally, topic–focus clauses with shì 是 and focus markers such as jiù 就 and dōu 都 are explained. Finally, punctuation marks in Chinese are described within topic–comment structures, along with classical Chinese texts and poems. Furthermore, the overall significance of recognizing topic–comment structures in the context of translation is emphasized, presenting a systematic perspective on their relevance within the Chinese language. All explanations are accompanied by a multitude of illustrative examples.
