Abstract:
Aims at classifying the classifiers found in Thai and Vietnamese quantitative noun phrases. The Componential analysis method is employed, with a view toward comparing the worldviews of the speakers of both languages which are reflected through their selections of classifiers. The data are derived from documentary source, and from interviews of Thai and Vietnamese informants. The study focuses on "true classifiers" in both written and spoken languages as well as on those used in general and special contexts. An analysis of the data reveals that groups of true classifiers in Thai are different in number from those in Vietnamese. Thai classifiers, totalling 73 items with 52 semantic features, can be divided into 3 groups; namely, classifiers of body parts, classifiers of perception, and classifiers of feelings. Vietnamese classifiers, totalling 74 items with 70 semantic features, can be divided in to 5 groups; that is, classifiers of body parts, classifiers of perception, classifiers of feelings, classifiers based on personification, and classifiers based on metaphor. The semantic features used as a criterion for classifying the Thai and Vietnamese classifiers are found to be similar. These are inherent features, perceptual features, features of function and those of extraordinary characteristics. Additionally, the most distinctive features of each group of classifiers prove that the classifiers, both in Thai and Vietnamese, are selected by the speakers in accordance with cultural conditions, which reflect the worldviews of Thai speakers and Vietnamese speakers.