a study on negation in english songs by taylor swift with reference to vietnamese equivalents

Nghiên cứu về phủ định trong các ca khúc tiếng Anh của Taylor Swift và tương đương tiếng Việt Student: Hoang Hai Yen Student ID No: 20010065 Course: 2020 - 2024 Field: English Langua

Rationale for the study

Negation is a universal linguistic element that plays a crucial role in daily communication It allows speakers to express opinions regarding refusal, disagreement, denial, or disbelief The importance of negation lies in its ability to convey various meanings beyond simple affirmation, adding depth and nuance to conversations, thereby enabling more precise and rich expressions

Additionally, negation creates necessary contrasts in communication, enriching conversations and allowing speakers to express their thoughts and emotions in diverse and nuanced ways This not only helps the listener understand the message more clearly but also enhances the effectiveness of communication in various situations Negation is not merely a grammatical structure, it also reflects attitudes and thought processes It can be expressed in many ways across different languages, including words like “no”, “not”, and “never”

However, when using negation in grammar, it also becomes an important tool for conveying meaning

For example, the sentence “I do not agree” expresses opposition, while

“He did not come” informs about an event that did not occur Negation not only helps clarify information but also creates necessary contrasts, making conversations more multidimensional and rich As a result, language can convey complex and precise meanings, meeting the diverse communication needs of people Furthermore, the study of negation in linguistics is essential for comprehending the structure, semantics, and pragmatics of language It sheds light on how languages encode negative meanings, how negation interacts with other linguistic elements, and how speakers strategically use negation to convey their intentions and attitudes

In Taylor Swift’s self-penned songs, there is often a sense of negativity that not only addresses the negative aspects of life but also portrays how individuals face and overcome these challenges Moreover, this negativity encompasses a diverse and reflective nature that resonates with the human

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University experience Taylor Swift has established an image as a sincere and genuine artist, and exploring how she uses negativity in her music can illuminate how artists can connect with fans by sharing their emotions and personal experiences In addition, this exploration can shed light on how music can relieve stress and foster a sense of empathy within the listener community With her widespread public recognition, Taylor Swift adeptly employs the art of clever negativity alongside carefully crafted and easily understood lyrics in her songs Therefore, I chose “A Study on Negation in Selected English Songs by Taylor Swift concerning Vietnamese Equivalents” for my research because studying negation in a literary work can provide a deeper understanding of its syntactic and semantic features in context In addition, to the author’s knowledge, there have been no studies on the same topic at Phenikaa University Therefore, this is a research gap for the current study.

Aims and objectives of the study

Aims

This study aims to identify the syntactic and semantic features of negation in English and relate them with Vietnamese equivalents, which are extracted from songs by Taylor Swift.

Objectives

The study is intended to identify:

- Syntactic features of negation in Taylor Swift’s songs in English - Semantic features of negation in Taylor Swift’s songs in English - The Vietnamese equivalents of the English negation are extracted from

Taylor Swift’s songs (Vietsubs) and Vietnamese songs.

Research questions

The study makes an effort to answer the following questions:

Q1 What are the syntactic features of negation English in Taylor Swift’s songs?

Q2 What are the semantic features of negation English in Taylor Swift’s songs?

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Q3 What are the Vietnamese equivalents of negation English in Taylor Swift’s songs?

Scope of the study

This study only focuses on identifying syntactic and semantic features of negation English in Taylor Swift’s songs, and then finding and analyzing their Vietnamese equivalents There are more than 10 negative words found in Taylor Swift’s songs, the popular songs that will be featured in the study, the study will focus on the usage of the words “never” and “no”, which are the most frequently occurring negation words in Taylor Swift's lyrics The analysis of these words will elucidate the recurring themes and narrative techniques that Taylor Swift employs

The study will feature several popular songs by Taylor Swift to illustrate the use of these negative words The study selects well-known tracks in order to provide clear and relatable examples of how negation is employed to convey different emotions and narrative elements in Taylor Swift's music By examining the lyrics, the study aims to identify patterns in the use of negation

This includes understanding how negation contributes to the overall meaning and emotional impact of the songs This analysis will consider both the linguistic and cultural differences that affect translation.

Significance of the study

The importance of this topic in language learning is to help students understand more about the structure and meaning of language and how linguistic elements are used to convey emotion and meaning By studying how negation is used in music, students can improve their language skills and gain a deeper understanding of the culture and linguistic mindset of communities

In addition, the application of knowledge gained from this research can support language teaching and learning, as well as translation and literary composition.

Methods of the study

The comparative and contrastive method is essential for identifying and analyzing the similarities and differences in the use of negation between

English and Vietnamese This method involves several key steps, including the selection of a representative sample of Taylor Swift’s songs that prominently feature negation, the extraction of negation instances from these lyrics, and the comparison of these instances with their Vietnamese translations By employing this method, researchers can gain insights into how negation is conveyed differently in English and Vietnamese, focusing on syntactic structures, word choices, and the overall impact of negation

The statistical method is used to quantify the frequency and distribution of negation words and phrases in Taylor Swift’s lyrics This method involves compiling a corpus of Taylor Swift’s song lyrics, using software tools to count the occurrences of negation words such as “never”, “no”, and “not”, and determining how these negation words are distributed across different songs and albums The statistical method also allows for the analysis of trends over time Researchers can examine how the use of negation evolves across different albums, reflecting changes in Swift’s lyrical style and thematic focus By examining the emotional and narrative context of each song, researchers can interpret the nuanced uses of negation beyond their literal meanings.

Design of the study

This topic consists of three main parts and three chapters

Part A: The introduction of the rationale, objectives, research questions, scope, methods, and design of the study

Part B: The first chapter, “Literature Review” provides an overview of negation in English, including definition, classification, syntactic and semantic features This chapter establishes a basic understanding of negation in English, contextualizes it within existing research both globally and in Vietnam, and illustrates its practical application in contemporary songwriting through the work of Taylor Swift

Second, the chapter focuses on a detailed description of the

“methodology” used in the study, including the criteria for song selection, the

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University data collection process, and the analytical methods used to identify and compare negation patterns

The third chapter presents an analysis of “Negation patterns and semantic features in Taylor Swift’s songs and compares them with their Vietnamese counterparts”

The final chapter discusses the practical “Implications of the study’s findings for the translation of negation from English into Vietnamese” It highlights specific challenges related to structural patterns and semantic implications influenced by cultural factors and suggests possible solutions to address these issues

Part C: The conclusion, summarizes the main points discussed in the previous parts and presents the implications of the study

LITERATURE REVIEW

Overview of negation in English

1.1.1 Negation by Auxiliaries The negation of a simple sentence is formed by placing the negative element

“not” between the operator and the predication The operator is either the first auxiliary verb of the verb phrase or “be” or “have” as a main verb [2]

Negation is a fundamental aspect of human language and thought, allowing speakers to deny, contradict, or reverse statements and propositions In English, the expression of negation is primarily facilitated by the use of auxiliary verbs, which serve as essential components in the construction of negative sentences

Negation in English often involves the use of auxiliary verbs, also known as helping verbs These helping verbs are combined with the word "not" to form the negative Negation with the auxiliary verb acts as a helper to the verb that comes before the main verb The auxiliary verb can be divided into two parts

We make negative forms by putting “not” after be when be (is, am, are, was, were) is the main verb

Table 1.1 Affirmative and Negative Sentences using the Verb “be”

I am happy I am not happy

She is a doctor She is not a doctor

They are friends They are not friends

He was here yesterday He was not here yesterday

We were at the party We were not at the party

If the main verb is a normal verb, we make negative forms by adding “not” after the auxiliary/modal verb and before the main verb and return the main verb to its original form

Table 1.2 Affirmative and Negative Sentences using Regular Verbs

Simple Present I play games I do not play games

Simple Past I played games I did not play games

Present Perfect I have played games I have not played games

For modal verbs such as “can” and “could” their negative forms are distinct

“Can't” is the contraction for “cannot” used to express inability or prohibition in the present tense Similarly, “couldn't” is the contraction of “could not” used to denote inability or impossibility in the past tense These forms change the meaning of modal verbs from positive to negative, providing clarity and precision in communication

Table 1.3 Affirmative and Negative Forms with Modal Auxiliaries Verb

Can Present She can speak

Spanish She could not spoke

Will Present He will attend the meeting

He will not attend the meeting

Past He would have seen the movie by then

He won't have seen the movie by then

Shall Present We shall surrender We shall not surrender

May Present You may enter without permission

You may not enter without permission

Might Past They might have received the package yet

They might not have received the package yet

Must Present We must be late We must not be late

Past He must have seen the email

He must not have seen the email

Should Past You should have eaten more sugar

You should not have eaten too much sugar

1.1.2 Negation by Prefixes Affixal negation is a process of word-formation, by which a new word is built from a word stem, usually through the addition of an affix, either at the beginning (prefix) or the end of the stem (suffix) A negative affix is an affix that opposes or negates a word [3]

A prefix is a group of letters added to the beginning of a word to form a new word with a different meaning It is important to know the meaning of each prefix to understand the meaning of the new word In English, one way to make negative statements is to add negative prefixes to nouns, adjectives, and verbs These prefixes, when attached to a base word, change its meaning to convey its opposite or negate its inherent quality a Negative Prefix “dis-”

The prefix dis- (from Latin) besides various other meanings also has that of a pure negative, as in dissimilar, dishonest, disagree, disuse, dislike, disbelieve, generally implying contrary rather than contradictory opposition [4]

The negative prefix dis- is most often used with verbs and abstract nouns, by attaching "dis-" to these words, English speakers effectively create antonyms or negative counterparts that clarify opposition or negation in communication This prefix enriches vocabulary by providing nuanced expressions that contrast with their positive counterparts, facilitating more precise and expressive language use

(1) Disorganized, disloyal, displeased b Negative Prefix “in-”

The negative prefix added to adjectives means “not”, and added to nouns, it means “without, lacking” While it does not typically negate verbs in English, it serves various functions based on Latin phonology and its application to English words It can take different forms depending on the initial consonant of the word it modifies

Before the consonants /b/, /m/, and /p/, in- becomes “im-”

Before words beginning with the letter "l", “in-” becomes “il-”

The allomorph “ir-” can be added to some words beginning with the consonant

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University c Negative Prefix “non-”

The negative prefix “non-” means “not” or “absence of something” and can be used with adjectives, adverbs, and nouns [5]

The prefix “non-” means “not” “Non-” can be added to almost any adjective

“Non-” also combines with many nouns, as in nonentity, nonresident, and nonviolence It never combines with verbs In older texts, dictionaries, textbooks, and other materials, the prefix non- was always written with a hyphen

(6) Non-active, non-breakable, non-defensive, non-specific d Negative Prefix “un-”

The prefix “un-” is a native English prefix used primarily for negation It is commonly applied to simple adjectives with native English roots to indicate the opposite or absence of the quality described by the base word This prefix is versatile and widely recognized, making it a fundamental part of the English vocabulary for expressing negation in adjectives Unlike borrowed prefixes such as “in-” (from Latin) or “non-” (from Latin and Greek), “un-” is native to English and fits seamlessly into its lexicon Its use remains consistent and transparent, contributing to the clarity and precision of communication in both spoken and written contexts

(7) Unfair, unhappy, unkind e Negative Prefix “anti-”

The negative prefix “anti-” is derived from the opposite of something or against In general, anti is attached to nouns and adjectives The prefix “anti-” adds depth and specificity to the vocabulary, allowing speakers and writers to clearly articulate opposition or resistance to various concepts or entities Its versatile use in English enriches language usage by providing nuanced expressions of dissent or opposition in different contexts

1.1.3 Negation by Suffixes While English primarily uses prefixes to indicate negation, there are some suffixes that can indirectly convey negation by changing the meaning of a word

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University from an adjective or verb to a noun Suffixes are affixes that are placed at the end of the word, it is in a language vary depending on the language and the word to which they are attached These suffixes are less common than prefixes for indicating negation in English, but they still play a role in modifying the meaning of words to convey absence, lack, or negation a Negative Suffix “-less”

The negative suffix “-less” is used in English to indicate the absence or lack of the quality denoted by the base word When attached to nouns or adjectives, it creates new words that imply the absence of the characteristic or entity being described This suffix is particularly versatile, allowing the creation of concise and descriptive terms that convey the idea of without or lacking

(9) Careless, meaningless, childless b Negative Suffix “-free”

The use of “-free” in English contributes to clarity and specificity in communication by succinctly indicating the exclusion or liberation from something considered negative or undesirable This suffix is often attached to nouns or adjectives to create compound words that emphasize the absence of a particular substance, condition, or constraint

(10) Smoke-free, stress-free c Negative Suffix “-n’t”

The suffix “-n’t” in English is a contraction used to form negative contractions with auxiliary verbs such as “do”, and “be” and modal verbs such as “can”, “will”,

Previous studies

“Contrastive Analysis of Negation in Language and Its Implications for Mwaghavul and English” in Journal of Language in India written by Judith Makse Patrick, Nanbam Yuwana Ojo, Professor Mingcai Sui, and Banenat Didam published in 2014 This study compared negation in the languages of the two countries at the syntactic and lexical verb levels The scope of this study focused on the six personal pronouns in the sentence context presented in English and Mwaghavul in the present simple, simple past, and future simple negative tenses

“Negation English Speech and Writing” classifies the use of negation in both oral and written language by Gunnel Tottie in 1991 Gabriella Mazzon (2004) in “A History of English Negation” presents a comprehensive study of negation, combining both synchronic and diachronic complementary analyses

Traditional, structural and logical perspective of negation are mainly investigated by grammarians and linguists, such as Diệp Quang Ban (2002) in

“Ngữ pháp Tiếng Việt”, Mai Ngọc Chừ, Võ Đức Nghiệu, Hoàng Trọng Phiến (2000) in “Cơ sở ngôn ngữ học và Tiếng Việt”, Hồ Lê (1993) in “Cú pháp Tiếng Việt”

“A contrastive analysis of simple negative sentences in English and Vietnamese” This research was published in the Magazine of Van Hien University, Volume 5, No.2, published in 2017 by Chau This contrastive analysis enhances

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University our understanding of simple negative sentences in English and Vietnamese, emphasizing the intricate interplay between syntax and semantics

“An investigation into negative sentences in English and Vietnamese: A word grammar perspective”, M.A thesis in the English language at Da Nang University authored by Nguyen Vu Phong Van in 2012, under the guidance of Tran Quang Hai, analyzed the structures of sentences containing negative words extracting from Vietnamese and English works This paper identified negative devices in English and Vietnamese, the similarities and differences between English and Vietnamese when using negative sentences; determined the aims of using negative sentences, and found out the functions of negative sentences in context The study aimed to investigate the negative sentences in English and

“Câu phủ định tiếng Hán trong sự đối chiếu với tiếng Việt”, M.A thesis in the linguistics, written by Ly Bao My in 2015 at Ha Noi National University showed the comparison of the negative structure between the two languages to find out the differences between the two languages and to summarize the different elements about how to use negative in Chinese and Vietnamese sentences

Through the above research articles, we can see that although there are studies in the world and in Vietnam on the aspects of negation, there has not been any research article analyzing negation through songs

1.3 Taylor Swift as a songwriter and her use of negation in her songs

Taylor Swift displays a remarkable talent for songwriting, particularly in her ability to fit words together in a manner that is both effective and aesthetically pleasing She is particularly adept at composing songs that convey personal emotions, as evidenced by “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together”, and at narrating stories and creating characters Swift’s versatility allows her to write songs that capture single moments or those that narrate a series of events

Examples of the latter include “Betty” and “Fifteen” She displays a diverse range of abilities, encompassing the overarching narrative or attitude of a song, as well as the precise alignment of vowels and consonants Throughout, she maintains accessibility and relatability Her extensive and varied songwriting, comparable in word count to that of legends such as Bob Dylan, exemplifies her considerable melodic and lyrical gifts

Taylor Swift is widely recognized for her exceptional songwriting abilities, which have contributed significantly to her success and the emotional impact of her music One of the notable techniques she employs is the use of negation, negation helps in highlighting contrasts between what is and what is not, which can deepen the emotional resonance of a song

(32) You call me up again just to break me like a promise (Taylor Swift,

“Và anh lại gọi em lần nữa, như chỉ để làm em tan vỡ thành từng mảnh như lời hứa năm nào.”

The negation in the song here “just to break me like a promise” emphasizes the betrayal, intensifying the feeling of loss and heartbreak

Swift often uses negation to articulate the absence of something or someone, making the sense of loss more palpable

(33) I’m not a princess, this ain’t a fairy tale (Taylor Swift, 2008) [White Horse, line 7]

“Rằng em nào phải công chúa, và đây cũng chẳng phải truyện cổ tích.”

By negating the fairy take scenario, she emphasizes the disillusionment and the end of an idealized relationship

(34) We are never ever getting back together (Taylor Swift, 20012) [We

Are Never Ever Getting Back, line 12]

“Chúng ta sẽ chẳng bao giờ quay về bên nhau lần nào nữa.”

Negation can also serve to define a character or situation by specifying that it is not This repeated negation leaves no room for ambiguity, clearly stating the singer’s stance

(35) You’re still all over me like a wine-stained dress I can’t wear anymore

“Hình bóng của anh vẫn ngập tràn trong tâm trí em, như một vết rượu trên chiếc váy mà em chẳng thể nào mặc lại nữa.”

Negation often underscores emotional resolution or acceptance Through these various uses of negation, Taylor Swift adds depth, clarity, and emotional nuance to her songs, making her lyrics resonate powerfully with listeners

Negation is a pivotal element in English that allows for the articulation of denial, contradiction, or inversion of statements and propositions Through various methods auxiliaries, prefixes, suffixes, adverbs, phrases, and specific structures like “neither nor” English speakers can effectively convey negative meanings in diverse contexts Each method offers a unique way to alter or emphasize the absence, rejection, or opposite of a given statement Auxiliary verbs, both primary (be, have, do) and modal (can, will, shall, etc.), form the backbone of negation in English sentences Prefixes (un-, non-, dis-) and suffixes (-less, -free) extend this capability to individual words, changing their meanings to reflect opposition or absence Adverbs (not, never, hardly) and phrases (not at all, no matter ) further enrich this capacity, enabling nuanced and varied expressions of negation

Structures like “neither nor” and emphatic phrases (even, still less) add layers of emphasis and clarity

Taylor Swift’s use of negation in her songwriting exemplifies how these linguistic tools can enhance emotional expression and storytelling Her lyrics often employ negation to highlight contrasts and intensify emotional impact, as seen in songs like “All Too Well” and “We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together”

Through these techniques, she vividly captures feelings of loss, resolution, and disillusionment, demonstrating the powerful role of negation in language and art

Understanding these aspects of negation not only deepens our grasp of English grammar but also illustrates its versatility in conveying complex and nuanced meanings, whether in everyday communication or artistic expression

METHODOLOGY

Selection criteria for Taylor Swift’s songs

The selection of Taylor Swift’s songs for analysis involves several criteria to ensure a comprehensive and insightful study First, the popularity and impact of the songs are considered, focusing on chart-topping hits and critically acclaimed tracks that reflect her influence on the music industry

Additionally, the linguistic diversity of the songs is important, incorporating various tenses, moods, and expressions of negation to analyze complex linguistic elements in translation Including songs from different albums and genres, such as country, pop, and indie, allows for a thorough examination of her evolving lyrical themes and styles over time The availability of verified Vietnamese translations is crucial for accurate comparison and analysis, ensuring that the research is based on reliable data.

Data collection process

a Sources for song lyrics and Vietnamese translations

The objective of this research is to collect and analyze Taylor Swift’s song lyrics and Vietnamese translations This process involves identifying reliable sources and systematically gathering relevant data to ensure accuracy and comprehensiveness Websites such as LyricsTranslate and Lyrics-on.net are selected due to their reputability and extensive database of translations These platforms offer not only the original English lyrics of Taylor Swift’s songs but also their Vietnamese translations, making them ideal for this research Once reliable sources are identified, the next step involves searching for specific Taylor Swift songs on these websites Using the search functions, researchers can locate the songs and ensure that both the original and translated lyrics are available This step is crucial for collecting complete data sets, as it allows for a direct comparison between the English lyrics and their Vietnamese counterparts

The collected data is then systematically recorded For each song, the title, URL, original English lyrics, and Vietnamese translations are documented This meticulous recording process ensures that all relevant information is captured

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University accurately, facilitating subsequent analysis By organizing the data in this manner, researchers can easily access and review the lyrics and translations, aiding in the identification of patterns and nuances in the use of negation words in both languages This data collection process is foundational to the research as it enables a thorough examination of how negation is expressed in Taylor Swift’s songs and how these expressions are translated into Vietnamese The analysis can reveal linguistic and cultural differences in negation usage, offering insights into the translation challenges and strategies employed by translators b Data collection technique

The method used to obtain data in this research is the listening method The follow-up technique is note-taking, which is recording all words expressing negation in English In the data preparation phase, the first action that we took was to listen to or look for all the words that express negation in her lyrics The second action we do after listening to all the types of negation in her song is to record all sentences that express negation

The translational method is utilized because the determining tool is another language, which refers to a language different from the one being studied The technique used for data analysis is the determining element sorting technique In this stage, the researcher undertakes several steps: Firstly, examining suffixes that indicate negation in Taylor Swift’s songs Secondly, classifying negation word forms according to word groups Thirdly, determining the form of negation based on the types of word groups in songs Fourthly, analyze the meanings generated by the negation forms of all words associated with the negation forms

The last step of this research is the presentation of the results of data analysis Presentation of data analysis results using informal and formal methods

The formal method is to present the results of the analysis using writing, not in the form of numbers Informal methods present the results of the analysis using signs and symbols

2.2.1 Sources for Song lyrics a Taylor Swift’s Official Website

Taylor Swift’s official website is a thorough resource designed for both fans and researchers It includes a full discography with authorized lyrics for all songs, ensuring accuracy and fidelity to her artistic vision The site also provides extensive details about her albums, offering background stories and insights into her songwriting process Additionally, it features updates on her latest releases, tour schedules, merchandise, and exclusive content for registered fans, making it indispensable for those analyzing her musical and linguistic contributions b Music Streaming Services

Music streaming services like Spotify, Apple Music, and Amazon Music play a vital role in ensuring Taylor Swift’s music reaches a global audience These platforms not only deliver high-quality audio streaming but also offer synchronized lyrics that display in real-time as songs play, enhancing the listening experience Furthermore, they frequently feature artist-curated playlists, interviews, and exclusive content, fostering a closer connection between fans and Taylor Swift’s music Subscribing to these services guarantees access to her latest releases and a comprehensive library of her songs, making them essential resources for both casual listeners and serious researchers alike

2.2.2 Sources for Vietnamese Translations a Official Translation Releases

Official translation releases of Taylor Swift’s songs refer to translations that are authorized and released directly by Taylor Swift’s official channels or her record label These translations are typically found on her official website, in official lyric videos, or through licensed distribution channels They are considered accurate and reliable as they come directly from the artist or their representatives

Official lyric videos on Taylor Swift’s YouTube channel also often come with subtitles translated into many languages, including Vietnamese b Vietsub Channels on Youtube

Vietsub channels on YouTube specialize in creating Vietnamese subtitles (vietsubs) for Taylor Swift’s music videos and songs These channels are created and managed by fans who are passionate about Taylor Swift’s music and aim to

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University make her songs more accessible to Vietnamese-speaking audiences Vietsub channels vary in quality, but they often provide timely translations and interpretations of lyrics and music videos

Some Vietsub channels like “Taylor Swift Vietsub” or “TSVN Vietsub” often quickly update Vietnamese subtitles for Taylor Swift’s MVs and songs

These channels often have large fan communities, working together to translate and share Taylor Swift’s musical works with Vietnamese people c Facebook Fan Pages and Groups

Facebook fan pages and groups dedicated to Taylor Swift serve as community-driven platforms where Vietnamese fans collaborate to translate her songs These groups are places where fans share their love for Taylor Swift’s music and work together to provide translations of lyrics, interviews, and other content related to her musical releases The accuracy of translations on these platforms may vary based on the expertise and dedication of the fan translators Fan page like “Taylor Swift Fan Vietnam” often post translations of song lyrics, interviews, and the latest news about Taylor Swift.

Analysis of negation patterns

2.3.1 Methods for identifying and classifying instances of negation

By applying rule-based approaches and techniques, we can gain a deeper understanding of how Taylor Swift utilizes negation in her lyrics to evoke complex emotions, depict interpersonal dynamics, and shape narrative arcs within her songs

Taylor Swift frequently employs negation to convey various sentiments and narrative stances in her songs Keywords such as “not”, “never”, “none” and

“nothing” serve as markers for direct denial or refusal within her lyrics Through

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University natural language processing (NLP) techniques, we can identify these keywords and analyze their usage patterns across her discography

(36) You’re not sorry (Taylor Swift, 2021) [You’re Not Sorry, line 16]

“Anh chẳng hề hối cải.”

In sentence (36), “not” mean “chẳng hề” is a combination that underscores emotional disappointment and the passage of time without reconciliation, highlighting Swift’s adeptness at using negation to convey complex emotions

Negation in Swift’s lyrics often enhances emotional resonance and narrative depth By focusing on common themes such as heartbreak, empowerment, and personal reflection, the analysis of negation in Swift’s lyrics deepens our understanding of how she constructs narratives

Lexicon-based approaches make use of specialized dictionaries or lexicons designed for the analysis of negation cues within song lyrics These methodologies are of paramount importance in the effective identification and categorization of instances of negation A tailored lexicon for song lyrics typically includes key negation indicators such as “not”, “never”, “none”, and “nothing”, and their variants By applying these lexicons, researchers can identify sentences or phrases in song lyrics that systematically feature these negation cues These lexicons are comprehensive, encompassing a wide array of negation expressions, including phrases, idiomatic usages, and context-specific cues specific to Taylor Swift’s lyrical compositions This comprehensive coverage ensures a nuanced understanding of the intricate integration of negation into her narrative techniques

The process entails identifying linguistic patterns and structures where negation is either explicitly stated or subtly implied To properly interpret the impact of negation, it is essential to consider the emotional and narrative contexts of each song This analysis examines the role of negation in the context of overarching themes such as love, loss, defiance, or introspection, thereby enhancing the interpretation of the song’s lyrical content

In addition to academic exploration, lexicon-based approaches have practical applications in music analytics, sentiment analysis, and content categorization within the music industry These methodologies facilitate the generation of data-driven insights into audience engagement, lyrical trends, and the strategic branding of artists

Nevertheless, lexicon-based analyses may be constrained in their ability to fully capture the nuances of Taylor Swift’s lyrical style when she employs figurative language or context-dependent expressions that are not directly encompassed by the lexicon This encompasses instances where negation subtly modifies or amplifies the lyrical message through the use of metaphors, irony, or rhetorical devices In order to accurately interpret the intended meanings of such nuances, supplementary contextual analysis may be required

Moreover, in some cases, the negation present in lyrics may be ambiguous or open to multiple interpretations, particularly in artistic contexts that are replete with symbolism and layered meanings Lexicon-based approaches may encounter difficulties in accurately categorizing these instances without a more comprehensive contextual understanding

The employment of automated tools designed to detect negation markers in song lyrics necessitates the adaptation or training of existing natural language processing (NLP) techniques, which are specifically tailored to lyrical texts These tools integrate capabilities for contextual analysis, thereby enhancing the interpretation of how negation influences diverse lyrical themes such as love, heartbreak, resilience, and personal growth The efficacy of these tools is validated through rigorous testing with diverse song lyric datasets, which ensures precision, recall, and overall accuracy in identifying negation markers across different styles and themes

One of the key advantages of these automated tools is their ability to process large volumes of song lyrics in a relatively efficient manner, thereby facilitating

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University comprehensive analyses of extensive discographies These tools facilitate the systematic detection of negation markers, while accommodating the distinctive characteristics of various lyrical styles and genres The customisation of lexicons, rules, and algorithms ensures the accurate identification and classification of negation instances, thereby contributing to a nuanced understanding across different artists and musical contexts

Moreover, the continuous updates and refinements of these tools enable them to evolve in tandem with linguistic trends and artistic expressions in music

This ongoing improvement ensures the continued relevance and effectiveness of these tools in the analysis of contemporary music, supporting applications in sentiment analysis, thematic exploration, and trend identification within the music industry By analyzing the contribution of negation markers to emotional impact and narrative depth in songs, these tools enhance audience engagement strategies and contribute to artist branding efforts

Dependency parsing represents a foundational technique in the field of natural language processing (NLP), utilized for the analysis of sentence structures and the deciphering of relationships among words The significance of dependency parsing extends across a spectrum of NLP applications, encompassing syntactic analysis, machine translation, and question answering The ongoing advancement of parsing algorithms has led to an enhancement in the precision and versatility of dependency parsing within real-world language processing tasks

When applied to Taylor Swift’s song lyrics, dependency parsing entails a series of systematic procedures At the outset of the process, the lyrics are subjected to preprocessing, which entails tokenization and part-of-speech tagging

This allows for the classification of each word according to its grammatical function Subsequently, dependency trees are generated to visually depict word relationships, elucidating how negation markers interact within sentence structures

This includes the identification of instances where negation modifies verbs, adjectives, nouns, or entire phrases

The analysis is focused on identifying recurring patterns in Taylor Swift’s use of negation across a diverse range of songs and albums This allows for an exploration of the variations in syntactic constructs and their implications for lyrical interpretation It is of paramount importance to consider the emotional and narrative contexts inherent to each song when analyzing Taylor Swift’s use of negation Such contextual awareness enriches the interpretation of nuanced negation uses beyond their literal meanings, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the lyrical content The clarity provided by dependency parsing in illustrating grammatical structures facilitates a deeper comprehension of the influence of negation on sentence formation and syntactic dependencies

Nevertheless, difficulties are encountered due to the inherent complexities of song lyrics Such texts frequently employ poetic language, metaphors, and ambiguous expressions, which can impede the parsing process Robust algorithms are essential for the accurate parsing of longer lyrics and intricate linguistic structures The necessity for parsing tools capable of disambiguating nuanced uses within artistic contexts is further underscored by the ambiguities inherent in negation interpretation Furthermore, the incorporation of idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms necessitates the adaptability of the parser to accommodate non- standard grammatical conventions and regional language variations

2.3.2 Approach for comparing English negation with Vietnamese equivalents

To effectively and appropriately compare English negation with its equivalent in Vietnamese, a logical approach is necessary

Firstly, identifying negation patterns is crucial This involves recognizing commonly used negation patterns in both English and Vietnamese This includes

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University examining how negation is syntactically and semantically structured in both languages

Summary

In Chapter 2, the focus is on enhancing the accessibility and popularity of Taylor Swift’s music among Vietnamese audiences This is achieved through two main strategies: official translations and community-driven efforts to reduce language barriers Official translations play a crucial role in accurately conveying Swift's lyrics, ensuring that cultural nuances and linguistic complexities are preserved This not only facilitates understanding but also deepens the emotional resonance of her music within the Vietnamese context

Community efforts complement these translations by fostering engagement and inclusivity They involve collaborative initiatives to translate and interpret Swift’s lyrics, leveraging local insights and cultural sensitivity to enhance the music’s relevance These efforts not only make Swift's music more accessible but also cultivate a sense of belonging and appreciation among Vietnamese fans By bridging linguistic gaps and promoting cultural exchange, both strategies aim to expand Swift's reach and influence in Vietnam, contributing to a vibrant cross- cultural musical experience

NEGATION IN TAYLOR SWIFT’S SONGS

Negation patterns

Prefixes are added to the beginning of a word to create its opposite or to imply a negative meaning Common prefixes used for negation include “un-”,

“in-”, “im-”, “dis-”, and “non-” In Taylor Swift’s songs, prefixes play a significant role in Taylor Swift's lyrical expression, particularly in conveying negation and nuanced meanings within her songs the use of negation through prefixes can be observed in various lyrics

Moreover, prefixes like “in-”, “im-”, and “dis-” are also utilized in Swift’s lyrics to express negation or reversal of qualities These prefixes modify words to denote absence or opposite meanings, thereby enhancing the lyrical impact and thematic depth of her songs

(38) I know I’m probably better off all alone Than needing a man who could change his mind at any given minute (Taylor Swift, 2021) [Better Man, line 14]

“Em biết rằng em tốt nhất nên một mình bước đi Còn hơn là nương tựa vào một người đàn ông luôn thay đổi một cách chóng mặt.”

In the song “Better Man”, the prefix “un-” is implicitly used in the phrase

“better off all alone”, suggesting a state of being without the need for companionship This use of “un-” reflects a decision or realization that independence may be preferable to dependence on someone who could potentially change their mind

(39) Got a long list of ex-lovers, they’ll tell you I’m insane (Taylor Swift, 2014) [Blank Space, line 21]

In example (39), although there is no direct negative prefix in the original English sentence, the meaning of the sentence contains negation because it talks about how her former lovers view her in a negative way In the Vietnamese translation, this sentence meaning:

“Với một danh sách dài về người cũ Bọn họ thì đều bảo với anh rằng em là một kẻ điên.”

This negativity is retained by using the word “crazy” a word with a strongly negative connotation, to convey the original message

In Taylor Swift’s lyrics, suffixes such as “-less” and “-free” serve to negate words by altering their meaning, although less commonly than prefixes These suffixes are notable for their ability to transform a word's connotation, often indicating the absence or lack of the root word's usual quality

(40) I’m feeling helpless, the damsels are depressed (Taylor Swift, 2019) [Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince, line 26]

In the song “Miss Americana & The Heartbreak Prince”, she employs the word “helpless” to evoke a sense of vulnerability and lack of support The suffix

“-less” attached to “help” effectively conveys the absence of aid or assistance, amplifying the emotional tone of the lyrics

To properly convey the emotions and negative meaning of this sentence, the Vietnamese translation needs to retain the feeling of helplessness and depression

“Em cảm thấy chính mình vô dụng làm sao, các thiếu nữ tuyệt vọng đến khốn khổ”

When the lyrics are translated into Vietnamese, the word 'helpless' can be understood as “bất lực” (powerless) or “vô dụng” (useless) Both meanings convey a negative connotation The word “vô” is used as a negation, which indicating that the singer herself brings no benefit or is unable to help at all.

Adverbs such as “not”, “never”, “no” and “nowhere” explicitly negate a verb or a statement These are frequent in song lyrics for emphasizing denial or absence Taylor Swift employs adverbial negation skillfully in her lyrics to emphasize denial, absence, or the reversal of expected experiences or emotions

(41) No appologies, he’ll never see you cry (Taylor Swift, 2012) [I Knew You Were Trouble, line 31]

“Không có một lời xin lỗi, anh ta còn chẳng bao giờ thấy em khóc.”

In example (41), Taylor Swift uses the adverbs “no” and “never” to negate the actions of her partner, he never give her appologies After translating into Vietnamese, the negating words “no” and “never” are both translated to “không” và “chẳng”.

Negation in Taylor Swift’s lyrics extends beyond single words or adverbs to encompass entire phrases that convey strong negative sentiments

(42) You call me up again just to break me like a promise (Taylor Swift, 2021) [All Too Well, line 33]

In sentence (42), the phrase “break me like a promise” not only implies the breaking of a promise but also carries emotional weight, suggesting a deep sense of hurt and disillusionment By combining words that negate the trust and sincerity implied by a promise, she effectively communicates the emotional impact of betrayal within the context of relationships

3.1.5 Negation by Not, No, Neither nor, Never

The direct use of negation words such as “not”, “no”, “neither nor” and

“never” is a straightforward way to negate statements or ideas Taylor Swift employs these words to clearly state what is absent or denied:

(43) a We are never ever getting back together (Taylor Swift, 2012) [We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, line 12]

“Chúng ta sẽ chẳng bao giờ quay về bên nhau lần nào nữa” b And I said, ‘No one has to know what we do’ (Taylor Swift) [Wildest Dreams]

“Và em nói rằng, Không ai biết những việc mà đôi ta đã làm đâu”

Through these examples in (43), the line “We are never ever getting back together” employs the word “never” repeatedly to underscore the impossibility of reconciliation The word “no” in the line “And I said, ‘No one has to know what we do.’ negates the necessity of others knowing their actions, creating a sense of secrecy and intimacy This use of negation adds a layer of depth to the narrative, portraying a private and exclusive bond This strong, repetitive negation reinforces the finality of the breakup, leaving no doubt about the speaker's resolution We can see how Taylor Swift’s strategic use of negation not only clarifies her lyrical messages but also enhances the emotional and narrative complexity of her songs.

Semantic characteristics

Negation in Taylor Swift’s songs serves as a powerful semantic device, enriching her lyrics with deeper meaning and emotional nuance Understanding the semantic characteristics of lyrics is essential for delving into the deeper meanings and emotional nuances embedded in Taylor Swift’s songs Semantic characteristics encompass the emotional tone, ambiguity, personal identity, and temporal and spatial context within the lyrics, offering a richer interpretation of the artist’s message and intent In particular, plays a crucial role in shaping these characteristics

By using negation, Taylor Swift not only emphasizes certain emotions and experiences but also introduces complexity and depth to her storytelling This nuanced use of negation allows her to convey vulnerability, assertiveness, and introspection, making her lyrics resonate powerfully with listeners

Emotional tone refers to the feelings or attitudes conveyed by the words and phrases within a song It shapes the listener's emotional response and sets the mood of the song Emotional tone can range from happiness and joy to sadness, anger, or defiance In song lyrics, negation can significantly influence emotional tone by highlighting contrasts, intensifying emotions, or emphasizing particular sentiments

Negation can turn a seemingly positive statement into a poignant expression of loss or regret, add layers of defiance or empowerment, and bring out the complexity of emotions in a narrative

Through negation, Taylor Swift can evoke a wide range of emotions, from melancholy and heartbreak to resilience and determination, adding depth and emotional richness to her lyrics Negation helps articulate the complexities of her characters' experiences, making the emotional journeys more relatable and impactful for her audience

(44) I knew you were trouble when you walked in (Taylor Swift, 2012) [I Knew You Were Trouble, line 20]

“Tôi biết anh chẳng đứng đắn gì khi anh bước vào cuộc đời tôi.”

Through these examples in (44), implicitly negates any possibility of a positive outcome from the relationship, expressing regret and foreboding This subtle negation enriches the emotional complexity of the song, capturing feelings of betrayal and self-awareness

Ambiguity is a linguistic phenomenon in which a word or utterance produces two or more interpretations in the process of language use [7]

Intentional ambiguity from the perspective of pragmatics refers to the linguistic phenomenon that the speaker consciously uses some vague, indirect or ambiguous words to express multiple illocutionary forces to the addressee in the specific context [8]

It occurs when a word, phrase, or sentence can be understood in multiple ways, often leading to uncertainty about the intended meaning As ambiguity, double meaning, also known as double entendre, refers to a word, phrase, or expression that can be interpreted in two different ways One interpretation is usually more obvious or straightforward, while the other may be more subtle, humorous, or risqué Double meanings add layers of complexity and can enrich the text by providing multiple levels of understanding or enjoyment

In Taylor Swift’s songs, negation can leave room for listeners to project their own experiences and emotions onto the lyrics, enhancing the personal connection to the music It can also add layers of meaning, where a single line might resonate differently with listeners based on their perspectives or the context

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University in which they hear it This complexity makes the lyrics more engaging and thought-provoking, as they can be revisited and understood in new ways over time

(45) I forgot that you existed (Taylor Swift, 2019) [I Forgot That You Existed, line 10]

“Tôi đột nhiên quên mất rằng anh đã từng tồn tại.”

Through these examples in (45), the negation of “forgot” and “didn’t” creates a double meaning The forgetting suggests moving on, while the admission that it didn’t kill her implies resilience and recovery In translating, “quên mất” and “từng” create a double meaning sentence, this helps the listener understand that Taylor Swift using these lyrics denies the existence of person

Negation in lyrics is a powerful tool for expressing personal identity and defining self-perception It allows songwriters to articulate what they are not, what they reject, or what they stand against, thereby highlighting their individuality and unique perspective By specifying what they do not identify with or believe in, artists can more clearly delineate their own beliefs, values, and experiences This use of negation helps to build a distinctive voice and persona in their music

In Taylor Swift’s songs, negation is often used to express her journey of self-discovery, empowerment, and emotional growth, making her music resonate deeply with listeners who see their own experiences reflected in her lyrics

(46) I’m so sick of running as fast as I can (Taylor Swift, 2019) [The Man, line 11]

“Tôi đã quá chán với việc phải chạy nhanh đến kiệt sức rồi.”

These examples in (46) exemplify this use of negation In both lyric and translation, Swift negates the idea of continuing her struggle without recognition,

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University emphasizing her exhaustion and the unfair standards she faces as a woman This negation not only underscores her frustration but also asserts her identity and the disparity in societal expectations based on gender

Temporal context refers to the time-related aspects of events, such as when something happened, is happening, or will happen Spatial context involves the location or setting where events take place Negation can be used in song lyrics to situate events within these temporal and spatial frameworks by indicating what did not happen, where someone is not, or what no longer exists This use of negation helps to clarify timelines, establish settings, and provide a deeper understanding of the narrative

By using negation to define what is not or what did not happen, Taylor Swift adds depth to the temporal and spatial contexts of her lyrics, enriching the storytelling and emotional resonance of her songs

(47) You call me up again just to break me like a promise (Taylor Swift, 2021) [All Too Well, line 33]

“Và anh lại gọi em lần nữa, như chỉ để làm em tan vỡ thành từng mảnh như lời hứa năm nào.”

The phrase “call me up again” in (47) is implies a repetition of an event, while "break me like a promise" indicates a past betrayal, situating the emotional experience in a temporal context

A comparison between English negation and Vietnamese

3.3.1 In terms of negation patterns

While both English and Vietnamese use negation to modify meaning and convey nuanced emotions, their approaches differ in structure and usage English often relies on morphological changes, while Vietnamese typically uses standalone words Additionally, cultural and linguistic norms influence the use and interpretation of double negatives in these languages

“Phân tích đối chiếu câu phủ định tiếng Anh và tiếng Việt trên bình diện cấu trúc – ngữ nghĩa” (Phuoc, 2000) This study established the concept of the structure and semantics of negative sentences, analyzed the description and classification of negative sentence models in English, and explored the similarities and differences in Vietnamese negative sentence models It analyzed and contrasted the semantic structures expressed through grammar and vocabulary in both languages

Based on the principles of establishing the structure and semantics of negative sentences in English and Vietnamese, four common methods of forming negative sentences have been identified

The first method is the Positional Method: This method is based on the distribution position in the sentence of nuclear negatives, implied or semi-negative forms, and negative forms in non-assertive contexts The positional method is quite common, accounting for 91.15% in English and 88.35% in Vietnamese, which is based on statistics from 793 English negative sentences and 798 Vietnamese negative sentences

The second is the Syntactic Structures Method, this method creates negative meaning using syntactic structures such as interrogative sentences with indefinite words like “ai” (who), “nào” (which), “làm sao” (how) in Vietnamese and yes/no, Wh-questions in English This method accounts for 8.77% in Vietnamese and 1.24% in English

The third is the Morphological Method: This method creates negative meaning through morphological formation using negative affixes placed before or after the root

Words-negative markers are the last method is Lexical Method, this method creates negative meaning using antonyms like “lack” (không có), negation verbs like “deny” (bác bỏ), “refuse” (từ chối), and idiomatic expressions such as conditional clauses, oaths, and expressions According to statistics, this method accounts for 1.74% in Vietnamese and only 0.86% in English [9]

3.3.1.1 Similarities a Use of negation words

There are corresponding negative markers, such as negative verb “không”,

“chẳng” in Vietnamese and “no” or “not” in English, phrases and their variants like “không ai”, “chẳng phải”, “chả”, “không có”, in Vietnamese and nothing, no one, not at all, nobody, not, any (Thiêm, 2004)

(48) We are never ever getting back together (Taylor Swift, 2012) [We Are Never Ever Getting Back Together, line 12]

In sentence (48), the word “never” serves as a strong negation marker to emphasize the definitive end of a relationship This use of “never” eliminates any possibility of reconciliation, making it clear that the decision is final and irrevocable The repetition of “never ever” further intensifies the negation, reinforcing the song’s theme of moving on and not looking back

(49) Em không là duy nhất (Tóc Tiên, 2020) [Em Không Là Duy Nhất, line

Negation in both Taylor Swift’s and Toc Tien’s lyrics serves to express significant emotional truths and personal realizations The sentence (49) uses

“không” in Toc Tien’s song to convey vulnerability and self-reflection, resonating with listeners who have felt overlooked or undervalued in a relationship

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University b Prefix and Suffix Negation

Negation in English and Vietnamese is often expressed through prefixes and suffixes, albeit with distinct forms and functions In English, common prefixes like “un-”, “in-”, “im-”, and suffixes such as “-less” are used to denote absence, reversal, or the opposite of quality In Vietnamese, prefixes such as “không”,

“chưa”, “bất”, and “vô” serve similar purposes, conveying negation, absence, or lack in different contexts Common negation prefixes in Vietnamese means the same in English like “không” means “not” or “no”, “chưa” means “not yet”, “bất” often translates to “non-”, “in-”, “un-” or “im-” in English

(50) Got a long list of ex-lovers, they’ll tell you I’m insane (Taylor Swift, 2014) [Blank Space, line 20]

Through these examples (50), uses the prefix “in-” in the word “insane” to negate sanity The term “insane” suggests a lack of sanity or mental stability, emphasizing the exaggerated perception others may have of the singer's romantic history This use of negation through the prefix “in-” underscores the song's theme of addressing misconceptions and stereotypes about Swift’s personal life

(51) Cạnh bên một người vô tâm (Bảo Anh, 2017) [Yêu Một Người Vô Tâm, line 1]

Through these examples in (51), the line “Cạnh bên một người vô tâm” translates to “Next to someone heartless” in English The phrase “vô tâm” directly expresses the idea of someone being heartless or indifferent, where the prefix “vô” conveys the meaning of lacking or without, similar to how the prefix “in-” in English negates the meaning of a word

(52) And I don't know why but with you I'd dance in a storm in my best dress, fearless (Taylor Swift, 2021) [Fearless, line 18]

“Và em cũng chẳng biết lý do là gì, nhưng khi bên anh, em sẽ khiêu vũ với chiếc váy thướt tha giữa cơn bão giông, không màng nguy hiểm.”

Through these examples in (52), the word “fearless” here is used to indicate the absence of fear or hesitation, emphasizing a bold and confident attitude towards love and life It contrasts with situations where fear might normally deter someone from enjoying life's moments fully

Vietnamese primarily uses prefixes to negate words, Vietnamese does not use suffixes to negate words While English uses both prefixes and suffixes for negation This structural difference highlights a key aspect of how negation is expressed in Vietnamese, contributing to the unique linguistic and cultural characteristics of the language c Adverbial negation

In both languages, adverbs are used to negate verbs or entire sentences For instance, “never” in English and “không bao giờ” in Vietnamese

(53) We are never ever getting back together

(54) Và em hứa sẽ không bao giờ nhìn lại để phải hối tiếc nữa (Lưu Bích, 2023) [Không Bao Giờ, line 9]

Both English and Vietnamese use adverbial negation to negate verbs or entire sentences Taylor Swift's use of “never” in her songs serves to emphasize a complete negation of actions or situations, much like how “không bao giờ” and similar phrases are used in Vietnamese songs

Summary

In this chapter, we explore the intricate use of negation in Taylor Swift’s songs, examining how she skillfully employs this linguistic device to enhance the emotional and narrative depth of her music Taylor Swift, renowned for her poignant and relatable lyrics, frequently uses negation to articulate complex emotions and situations, making her work a rich subject for linguistic analysis

This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how Taylor Swift utilizes negation in her songwriting Through detailed analysis, we uncover the layers of meaning and emotional depth that negation brings to her lyrics, showcasing her exceptional talent as a storyteller and lyricist

The paper with title: “A Study On Negation In English Songs By Taylor Swift With Reference To Vietnamese Equivalents”, has investigated the structures and the uses of English and Vietnamese negative sentences The similarities and differences of these units are also determined Some suggestions are also provided after analyzing all samples Finally, some implications for language learning and teaching are also presented Furthermore, presenting Taylor Swift’s songs also provides readers with an overview of her works and the conveyed meanings of her messages

Some features regarding the structure, patterns, and semantic roles of negation in English within Taylor Swift’s musical compositions, as well as their Vietnamese equivalents, have been identified in Chapters 2 and 3 In general, each language within every country exhibits distinctive features, largely influenced by cultural, natural, and historical factors Regarding expressions of negation in language, there appear to be both similarities and differences to some extent

Similarly, there are shared and divergent aspects in negation between English and its Vietnamese equivalents, balanced through a comparative approach between the two languages.

Summary of key findings

a Common negation patterns in Taylor Swift’s lyrics

Negation in Taylor Swift’s lyrics plays a crucial role as a powerful tool for conveying depth and emotional complexity, often appearing within contexts intertwined with personal experiences, relationships, and inner turmoil By employing negation, Taylor Swift skillfully impacts and heightens emotions in her songs, enriching the expression and message delivery in her artistry, which resonates profoundly Her themes often revolve around love, pain, self-discovery, and resilience in the face of challenges Alongside its communicative function,

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University negation in Taylor Swift’s lyrics serves various semantic roles, encompassing multiple meanings and emotional resonances in her songs Whether denying, expressing doubt, conveying regret, or creating tension in the narrative, Swift’s stylistic choices reflect her mastery of artistic expression, enabling her to craft compelling stories that resonate universally

Through these deliberate linguistic strategies, she creates music that not only engages listeners emotionally but also stimulates intellectual reflection Her ability to navigate the complexities of language and emotion underscores her stature as a songwriter who transcends mere entertainment, leaving a lasting impact on contemporary music and connecting deeply with diverse audiences seeking solace and empathy in her sincere narratives b Meanings of negation in Taylor Swift’s lyrics

In Taylor Swift’s lyrics, negation often acts as a tool to create contradictions or deny statements intentionally This deliberate use of negation generates tension and effectively emphasizes contrasts within the narrative, highlighting conflicts or differences By employing contradiction and denial through negation, Taylor Swift has crafted deeply layered songs on various themes It allows her to explore nuances in human interaction, culture, and inner emotions, while deeply engaging listeners with the implied meanings and messages conveyed through her music

Through the use of negation, Taylor Swift introduces uncertainty, ambiguity, and complexity into her storytelling This technique not only enriches the lyrical content but also enhances emotional connections with the music, encouraging a deeper exploration of layered meanings as listeners are prompted by Swift’s use of negation in her songs Furthermore, aside from creating complexity and ambiguity for listeners to unravel, Taylor Swift also uses negation to negate past difficulties or failures, emphasizing transformation, resilience, and overcoming challenges Learning and accepting from failures, she inspires

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University listeners to become stronger and more resilient, almost instilling motivation for them to persevere and strive c Similarities and differences between English negation and Vietnamese equivalents

The similarities and differences between negation in English and its equivalents in Vietnamese highlight how each language structures and expresses negation, impacting nuances, contexts, cultures, and historical influences in communication

In terms of similarities, both English and Vietnamese use specific words or sentence structures to form negation In English, the most common and frequently used forms include "not" or contractions like “-n’t” Similarly, Vietnamese utilizes straightforward and widely understood words like “Không” Grammatically, both languages position the negation word before the verb to denote the negative form within a statement Semantically, both languages employ negation to signify denial, contradiction, refusal, or absence in statements or actions used in everyday conversations

However, notable differences between English and Vietnamese also require attention to avoid misunderstandings in meaning and expression within sentences

In English, double negation is generally avoided In contrast, Vietnamese allows for double negation to reinforce the negative, enhancing the overall denial

Regarding word order within sentences, English typically impacts the verb directly with negation, whereas Vietnamese negation words like “Không” can influence various parts of a sentence structure and often impact the entire clause

Understanding these similarities and differences helps in navigating both languages effectively, ensuring accurate communication and interpretation of meaning in diverse linguistic and cultural contexts.

Implication

By examining the comparative analysis of negation between English and Vietnamese within the framework of Taylor Swift’s lyrics, we can identify key insights that extend beyond the immediate scope of the study

Understanding the meaning behind words in general, and negation in particular, is crucial in translation, as it determines the choices we make in accurately conveying messages The importance of meaning must be clearly demonstrated not only in ensuring clarity but also in maintaining the integrity of the message itself For translators, it is essential to grasp why certain words are employed to convey messages and how they interconnect within a broader context

During translation, this process involves analyzing and elucidating nuances, cultural references, and idiomatic expressions to faithfully convey the original message, thereby avoiding mistranslation or misinterpretation Importantly, translators must continuously utilize and explore more to capture these subtleties, ensuring that the translated text retains the same depth and conveys the meaning fully

2.1.1 Specific challenges in translating negation from English into Vietnamese

Translating negation from English into Vietnamese involves comprehending and adapting to the unique structural nuances of each language It requires understanding how to properly arrange the meaning and expression within the specific context being addressed This process demands a deep knowledge of both languages’ syntax and semantics, as well as an awareness of cultural subtleties that influence how negation is conveyed and interpreted in each language By mastering these aspects, translators can ensure that the intended message is accurately and effectively communicated in Vietnamese, preserving the original intent and clarity

With the structural models of negation in both languages and the differences in expression, culture, and sentence structure, they can be divided into four main forms that are commonly used to convey meaning in both languages a English Structural patterns of negation

Standard negation with “not” in English involves placing the negating word

“not” after an auxiliary verb to negate the main verb in a sentence This structure is fundamental in English grammar for expressing negation clearly and directly

S + Auxiliary Verb + Not + Main Verb (63) She is not going

Through these examples in (63), the auxiliary verb “is” is followed immediately by “not” which negates the action indicated by the main verb “going”

This structure allows for straightforward communication of denial or refusal in both formal and informal contexts It is essential in English for asserting negation without ambiguity, providing a precise means to convey actions that are not happening or qualities that do not exist This form of negation, with its syntactical clarity, is integral to English language usage, enabling speakers and writers to express both simple refusals and more complex denials with ease and accuracy

Negative contractions in English combine an auxiliary verb and the word

“not” to form a single negating word, providing a more informal and succinct way to express negation

Subject + Auxiliary Verb + Negative Contraction (64) He can’t swim

Through these examples in (64), the contraction “can’t” combine the auxiliary verb “can” and “not” indicating that he is unable to swim This form of negation is commonly used in spoken and informal written English, adding a

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University conversational tone while maintaining clarity Negative contractions like “can’t”,

“won’t”, “don’t”, and others streamline language by merging auxiliary verbs with

“not” making expressions more efficient and colloquial

Negative words in English, such as “never”, “nobody”, and “nothing” are used to negate verbs directly within sentences This structural pattern involves placing the negative word before the main verb in a sentence, often alongside auxiliary verbs for tense and grammatical structure

Subject + Auxiliary Verb + Main Verb + Negative Word (65) She never eats meat

Through these examples in (65), the negative word “never” precedes the main verb “eats” indicating that she does not eat meat at any time This form of negation emphasizes the absence or non-occurrence of an action or state, offering a clear and direct way to express denial or absence in English communication

Negative words like “nobody” and “nothing” similarly modify nouns or pronouns to denote absence or lack These structures are integral to English grammar and allow for nuanced expressions of negation across various contexts, adding depth and clarity to both spoken and written language

Negative prefixes in English, such as “un-”, “in-”, and “im-”, are added to adjectives or nouns to create a negating meaning, altering the sense of the word they are attached to This structural pattern allows speakers and writers to modify words to indicate the opposite or absence of a particular quality or state

Prefix + Adjective/Nouns (66) It is impossible

Through these examples in (66), the prefix “im-” is added to the adjective

“possible” changing its meaning to indicate something that cannot be done or

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University achieved Similarly, prefixes like “un-”, “in-“, and “ir-” are used to negate adjectives or nouns in English, providing a nuanced way to express negation based on the context and intended meaning b Vietnamese Structural patterns of negation

Standard negation with “không” in Vietnamese involves placing the word

“không” before the verb or adjective to indicate negation This structure is straightforward and fundamental in Vietnamese grammar for expressing denial or refusal

In Vietnamese, negative words like “bao giờ” (ever), “ai” (anyone), and “gì”

(anything) are used in conjunction with “không” to form negative sentences This structural pattern allows speakers to express the absence or non-occurrence of actions or states clearly and directly

Subject + Không + Verb + Negative word

(68) Cô ấy không bao giờ ăn thịt

“Không” is combined with negative words such as “bao giờ (ever)”, “ai (anyone)”, “gì” (anything) to form a negative sentence This structure in Vietnamese allows for precise communication of negation, emphasizing the absence or non-occurrence of actions or events It enables speakers to convey statements of denial or absence effectively, adding clarity and specificity to their communication Negative words like “bao giờ”, “ai” and “gì” modify verbs or nouns to denote the absence or lack of actions or qualities, enriching the language with nuanced expressions of negation

Translating negation from English to Vietnamese is a complex task that goes beyond mere structural rearrangement It involves capturing the full semantic nuances, tones, implications, and cultural subtleties inherent in both languages

These elements collectively ensure that the translated message not only preserves the original meaning but also resonates appropriately within the cultural context of the target language

Limitations

Firstly, the study’s topic may not have been thoroughly discussed, leading to limitations due to insufficient resources and time constraints Secondly, the

Copies for internal use only in Phenikaa University research only focused on common structures and popular songs to analyze a narrow aspect are English and Vietnamese equivalent negation clauses, primarily concerning syntax Therefore, the conclusion unavoidably reflects subjective elements.

Suggestions for further studies

Expanding the scope of the research to include more songs and more artists beyond Taylor Swift can provide a more comprehensive analysis of negation in English songs and their Vietnamese equivalents across different genres and cultural contexts Additionally, comparing the use of negation in song lyrics with other forms of artistic expression, such as literature or film, can help understand how negation operates uniquely in unmentioned sentence structures, as well as in the context of music and songwriting at different times Surveys collecting detailed information on listeners’ perceptions and emotional responses can offer insights into how audiences from different cultural backgrounds understand and react to negation in English and Vietnamese song lyrics Research on the origins and development of negation in English and Vietnamese over time is also useful, as it will shed light on changes in linguistic trends, cultural influences, and social norms in the use of negation in songs

[1] Mineko Tsukiyama, A study on Negation in English – A new Approach to Negation in School grammar, p.29

[2] Greenbaum, Sidney & Randolph Quirk et al, A University Grammar of English London: Longman Group Limited

[3] Dzuganova, Foreign Language Department Jesenius faculty of Medicine, Comenius University, Martin, Slovakia: “Negative Affixes in Medical English” [4] Quirk et al, A Comprehensive Grammar of the English Language Longman 1985, p 1540 – 1541

[5] Jesperson, Otto, Negation in English and Other Languages A.F Host, 1971 [6] Lucớa Muủoz Martớn, Universidad de Almerớa: Negative Inversion in Standard English, Mayo 2018

[7] Wu, S Pragmatic Analysis of Ambiguity Journal of Beijing International Studies University, 6, 6 – 10

[8] Thomas, J.A (1995) Meaning in Interaction: An Introduction to Pragmatics

[9] Trần Văn Phước, Phân tích đối chiếu câu phủ định tiếng Anh và tiếng Việt trên bình diện cấu trúc (A contrastive analysis of negative sentences in English and Vietnamese based on structure – semantics aspect), Doctoral thesis: University of Social Sciences and Humanities, 2000

[10] Nguyễn Vũ Phong Vân, An Investigation Into Negative Sentences In English And Vietnamese: A Word Grammar Perpective, 2012

List negation in Taylor Swift’s lyrics and Vietnamese equivalents

No In Taylor Swift’s lyrics Vietnamese equivalent 1 You call me up again just to break me like a promise Và anh lại gọi em lần nữa, như chỉ để làm em tan vỡ thành từng mảnh như lời hứa năm nào

2 I’m not a princess, this ain’t a fairy tale Rằng em nào phải công chúa, và đây cũng chẳng phải truyện cổ tích

3 We are never ever getting back together Chúng ta sẽ chẳng bao giờ quay về bên nhau lần nào nữa

4 You’re still all over me like a wine- stained dress I can’t wear anymore

Hình bóng của anh vẫn ngập tràn trong tâm trí em, như một vết rượu trên chiếc váy mà em chẳng thể nào mặc lại nữa

5 You’re not sorry Anh chẳng hề hối cải

6 I know I’m probably better off all alone

Than needing a man who could change his mind at any given minute

Em biết rằng em tốt nhất nên một mình bước đi Còn hơn là nương tựa vào một người đàn ông luôn thay đổi một cách chóng mặt

7 Got a long list of ex-lovers, they’ll tell you I’m insane Với một danh sách dài về người cũ Bọn họ thì đều bảo với anh rằng em là một kẻ điên 8 I’m feeling helpless, the damsels are depressed Em cảm thấy chính mình vô dụng làm sao, các thiếu nữ tuyệt vọng đến khốn khổ 9 No appologies, he’ll never see you cry Không có một lời xin lỗi, anh ta còn chẳng bao giờ thấy em khóc 10 And I said, ‘No one has to know what we do’

Và em nói rằng, Không ai biết những việc mà đôi ta đã làm đâu 11 I knew you were trouble when you walked in

Tôi biết anh chẳng đứng đắn gì khi anh bước vào cuộc đời tôi

12 I forgot that you existed Tôi đột nhiên quên mất rằng anh đã từng tồn tại

Tiêu đề	A Study on Negation in English Songs by Taylor Swift With Reference to Vietnamese Equivalents
Tác giả	Hoang Hai Yen
Người hướng dẫn	Nguyen Thi Thuy Linh, M.A
Trường học	Phenikaa University
Chuyên ngành	English Language
Thể loại	Graduation Paper
Năm xuất bản	2024
Thành phố	Ha Noi

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