Linguistic Features Existed and Value in Chinese Names of Thai Undergraduates

Abstract

The objective of this research aims at studying linguistic features of Chinese names given to Thai students in terms of word categories, word formation, and meanings. The samples included 341 names with 653 words, gathering from all undergraduate students majoring in Chinese program, the Faculty of Humanities of Naresuan University. And we also interviewed 6 Chinese teachers. After that, the data collected were analyzed using percentages. The research findings revealed that in the aspect of word categories. A group of adjectives indicated the highest level of usage (47.47%) whereas measure words, pronouns, prepositions and affixations (0.15%) occurred the least. Regarding the word formation process, compounding appeared as the most found process (70.67%) while reduplication displayed the lowest occurrence (2.35%). Lastly, the meaning of the sample names concerned on beauty and purity (27.71%), assets and valuable materials (12.71%), and quantities (0.15%) respectively. In terms of value for native Chinese teachers, found that it is very helpful for them to call students’ names easily. And it could be the tool of propagating language and reflecting how Chinese cultures are. As for students, Chinese name could help them understand deeply about the Chinese characters, make them feel more confident. Furthermore, it also likens their initial recognitions for Chinese people to accept them and can even be their symbols if they study further in China or work in organizations which relates to Chinese.