Comparison of “Verb to have + Verb” formation in Mandarin and Northern Thai Dialect Grammar

Abstract

The purposes of this research emphasized on comparing the similarities and differences of a semantic grammar structure of “Verb to have + Verb” in communicating in Mandarin and Northern Thai dialect. The results showed that in Mandarin, the structure conveyed 5 meanings included; to emphasize, to identify a small amount or weight, to explain finished verbs or actions, to describe happened or started actions, and to explain continuing actions while there were 4 meaning in Northern Thai dialect consisted of; to emphasize, to tell occurred verbs, to show prosperity and richness, to identify ownership or belonging. They shared 2 similar meanings of to emphasize the actions and explain the happened actions. The differences were the absence of prosperity and ownership in Mandarin meanings whereas the meanings of a small amount or weight, unfinished actions, and continuous verbs were excluded in Northern Thai dialect.