Some principles for determining discourse markers

Abstract

This paper discusses the selection of the term ‘discourse markers’ for particular linguistic elements and indicates possible patterns of discourse marker formation. Individual characteristics which are of a formal and functional nature, and which are often associated with discourse markers, are analysed. When determining linguistic elements which function as discourse markers, preference is given to the functional criterion, as formal characteristics merely indicate their belonging to this category.

Keywords

• discourse markers
• terminology
• formation
• characteristics
• functional criterion