German demonstrative so – intensifying and hedging effects*

Abstract

German so is a demonstrative expression which picks up degrees or properties and combines as a modifier with gradable as well as non-gradable expressions. Like other demonstratives it can be used deictically and anaphorically, and in addition occur 'out of the blue', without a demonstration gesture or antecedent. If an 'out of the blue ' use of so is combined with a gradable expression it yields an intensifying effect, similar to the degree modifier very. But if it is combined with a non-gradable expression it appears like hedging, the speaker being uncertain whether the term she chose is appropriate. This paper focuses on the out-of-the-blue uses of so and addresses the question of how they relate to the deictic and anaphoric uses. Provided it is the same lexical item: Why can a demonstrative expression function as an intensifying device and a hedging device, respectively?

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