A Multi-perspective and Functional Analysis of English Abstract Nouns in Academic Texts

Abstract

It is well acknowledged that abstract nouns, characterized by their generalized meanings and broad references, are frequently employed in English academic discourse to express complex ideas and content. Moreover, they serve as one of the primary means for authors to construct arguments, which play a crucial role in knowledge accumulation. Given the significance of abstract nouns in English academic texts, the author contends that a more comprehensive and in-depth investigation of such nouns is warranted. Building upon previous studies and incorporating concrete examples, this paper attempts to describe and analyze the diverse functions of abstract nouns in English academic discourse from the perspectives of textual cohesion, cognitive linguistics, and appraisal theory. The aim is to enhance understanding of these nouns and promote their effective application in practical English academic writing.