First-person Pronouns in Old Chinese “Wo” and “Wu”

Abstract

Although previous studies have examined this theme in terms of declension or emphasis, there is room for further discussion. This study first classifies predicates into event-predicates and state-predicates, and then demonstrates that “wo” is typically used with state-predicates and “wu” with event predicates. Finally, by summarizing the usage of subject, attribute, and object, it clarifies the differences between “wo” and “wu” in old Chinese wherein “wo” was used when a speaker objectively looked at themselves and the situation, while “wu” was used when the speaker subjectively looked at themselves and the situation.