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A Corpus-Driven Approach to English Expressions Based on Comparison: Not so Much A as B and Not so Much A but B

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  • Yae Furuta

    (Shikoku University, Japan)

Abstract

English expressions based on comparisons such as not so much A as B and not so much A but B (henceforth, not so much A as/but B) is one of the most problematic areas for Japanese learners of English. These structures not only enable a variety of expressions to be used in place of A and B, but also have many variations. Based on a corpus-driven approach, this paper focuses on not so much A as/but B, examines the ways in which they occur, and describes their main patterns and variations, as well as their functions. When it is clear in what contexts these expressions are used, it becomes much easier to grasp these complicated structures. This study revealed that these expressions have four main patterns and several variations. They are frequently used to clarify or illuminate a point in the domains where personal perspectives are important, and where the topic is often of a serious nature. Understanding typical usage patterns and functions of these complicated structures leads to more confidence in learning and teaching these structures as part of English language acquisition.

Suggested Citation

  • Yae Furuta, 2012. "A Corpus-Driven Approach to English Expressions Based on Comparison: Not so Much A as B and Not so Much A but B," International Journal of Computer-Assisted Language Learning and Teaching (IJCALLT), IGI Global, vol. 2(1), pages 24-34, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:igg:jcallt:v:2:y:2012:i:1:p:24-34
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