Syntax and semantics of “thôi” and “ngừng”

Abstract

The paper gives a comparative analysis of the syntax and semantic features of “thôi” and “ngừng” – two Vietnamese egressive verbs where their aspectual value will moderately be focused. Accordingly, “thôi” and “ngừng” have several syntac-semantic properties in common, but also several differences. Both “thôi” and “ngừng” denote “not continue” or “not recur”; but unlike “thôi” which implies a termination, “ngừng” implies a possible resumption of the event in question. They both presuppose the event which has been in progress. However, “”thôi” can refer to an intention, but “ngừng” can’t. “Thôi” manifests the event of Activity or State (eventual types), but “ngừng” manifests the event of Activity or State or Accomplishment. They both can be followed in complement clause. In case of “thôi”, the complement clause refers to events [+dynamic] [+control] while “ngừng” requires events [+dynamic] [±control]. Both “thôi” and “ngừng” show some similarities but also differences. That is why foreigners have trouble learning Vietnamese.