The Concept of Topic

This chapter addresses the lack of a uniform definition for the linguistic concept of topic, arguing that such inconsistency is not a valid reason for dismissal given similar challenges with the concept of subject. A comprehensive analysis of existing definitions is presented, categorized by semantic, syntactic, and pragmatic properties, including aboutness, initial position, and information givenness. The discussion highlights unique features in Chinese linguistics, as well as the challenges they pose to linguistic universals, particularly regarding postpositions and the relationship between topics and focal stress. It further distinguishes between topic expression as a syntactic position and topic referent as a semantic entity. Utilizing generative grammar principles, the author proposes a formal syntactic definition of the topic as a constituent within the TP but outside the IP. This structural foundation serves as a precursor for the more detailed positional analysis provided in subsequent chapters.