A semantic analysis of relative clauses modifying proper names in Mandarin

Abstract

This paper investigates the interpretations of relative clauses modifying proper names in Mandarin. It is proposed that a distinction should be made between individual-level relatives and stage-level relatives. It is further shown that individual-level relatives modifying proper names always yield a non-restrictive interpretation, whereas stage-level relatives modifying proper names always yield a restrictive interpretation. The underlying cause of the two interpretations is identified as the semantic ambiguity of proper names, which can denote individuals as well as stages realizing an individual. Following this view, the paper offers a semantic account for the two interpretations available to relative clauses modifying proper names.