50
This chapter explains research finding and discussion of research
finding. Research findings answer the research problem, there are: type of
ambiguity, the frequency of each ambiguity, the dominant type of ambiguity,
the causes of ambiguity, and also the way to disambiguate ambiguity.
A. Research Findings
The writer submits the result of the study on ambiguity found in
English textbook entitled Backpack 4. The writer was aimed at types of
ambiguity, the frequency of each ambiguity, the dominant type of ambiguity,
the causes of ambiguity, and also the way to disambiguate ambiguity.
1. Types of Ambiguity
In this paper, the writer categorizes types of ambiguity using
theory from Kreidler (2002: 41-169) and Kess in Fauziati (2009: 64). The
writer found three types of ambiguity: lexical ambiguity, referential
ambiguity, and surface structure ambiguity. From the data source, the
writer found 175 ambiguous sentences, consists of: 43 data of lexical
ambiguity, 74 data of referential ambiguity, and 58 data of surface
structure ambiguity. That data will be analyzed as follows:
a. Lexical Ambiguity
Ambiguity that is found in a single word is called lexical
interpretation. Some Linguist divided lexical ambiguity into three types,
namely: homonym, homophone, and polysemy. From the data source,
the writer found 43 ambiguous sentences, consists of 20 homonyms, 6
homophones, and 17 polysemes. The writer presents some ambiguous
sentence found in Backpack 4 as follows:
a) Homonyms
Kreidler states that sometimes two words sound the same but
have different meanings (homonyms), and sometimes sequences of
words with the same pronouncing have different interpretation
(ambiguity) (2002: 7). From the data source, the writer found 21
homonyms. The writer presents that dataas follows:
(1) Backpack Song (Backpack 4: 1)
(2) It’s time to open Backpack and see what we can see.
(Backpack 4: 1)
(3) ExploreBackpack with me! (Backpack 4: 1)
(4) Backpack is full of fun things we use each day in
school. (Backpack 4: 1)
(5) Stories, puzzles, songs, and games--Backpack is really
cool! (Backpack 4: 1)
(6) Backpack is full of fun and facts, project and pictures,
too (Backpack 4: 1).
All sentences above are lexically ambiguous because the
interpretation is a bag with shoulder straps that allow it to be carried
on student's back. The word Backpack in this interpretation also
known as school bag, book bag, knapsack, and rucksack. The second
interpretation is an English textbook entitled Backpack.
Sentence (2) clearly contains homonym that is in the word
see. The word see has more than one meaning, there are: get, notice,
catch with the eyes, read, understand the information, and learn the
knowledge. In (3), the word ‘explore’ also makes the lexical
ambiguous sentence, because the word explore can be interpreted in
more than two ways, there are: check out, investigate, make a study,
examine and learn. Sentence (5) exhibits lexical ambiguity: the word
cool can mean stylishly, fashionably, trendy, marvelous, amazing,
and impressive.
The context of all phrases and sentences above does not focus
in one interpretation. So both interpretations above are true to be
used in each sentence.
(7) We’ll have lots of adventures. (Backpack 4: 1)
In sentence (7), homonym is located in the word adventures.
The word adventures can be interpreted as the experience, the
outdoor activity, and the knowledge. The context of that sentence
does not focus on the one interpretation. So both interpretations are
(8) I am a new student at a new school in a new town.
(Backpack 4: 9)
Sentence (8) above is ambiguous in lexical level since the
word new has duality meaning, those are: not existing before, and for
the first time entry. The context of that sentence does not focus on
the word now to be the school or town that not existing before, and
school or town that the writer attends now for the first time. So both
interpretations of the word now are true to be applied in this sentence
(8).
(9) Go up to other kids and introduce yourself. (Backpack
4: 9)
The sentence above is lexically ambiguous because the word
up has two meaning, that is: near, upstair, or higher place. The
context of that sentence does not focus on the word up to be going
near the other kids or going to the other kids which are in higher
place. So both interpretations above are true to be used in this
sentence.
(10) You’re not eating right! (Backpack 4: 32)
(11) He could fall and slip and slide, and end up right on
his backside! (Backpack 4: 38)
Sentence (10) and (11) clearly contain homonym that is in the
word right. The word right has more than one meaning, there are:
not focus on one meaning. So both interpretations can clearly apply
in those sentences above.
(12) You could hurt yourself in a fall, and then never ride
at all.(Backpack 4: 38)
Sentence (12) clearly contain homonym that is in the word
fall. The word fall has two interpretations, there are: an act of
accidentally or drop to the ground or autumn. The context of that
sentence does not focus on one of meaning. So both interpretations
are true to be applied in those sentences above.
(13) You’re our star, Erica! (Backpack 4: 56)
Sentence (13) is clearly included homonym because that the
word stars has two interpretations, there are: people that helps
animal or the famous people. The context of that sentence does not
focus on one of meaning. So both interpretations are true to be
applied in those sentences above.
(14) Two years ago, Erica Summers started a toy animal
company, Stars in the Wild! (Backpack 4: 56)
Sentence (14) is clearly included homonym because that the
word stars has two interpretations, there are: the company name or
the famous animal. The context of that sentence does not focus on
one of meaning. So both interpretations are true to be applied in
(15) Back then, students didn’t have notebooks. (Backpack
4: 67)
Sentences (15) clearly contain lexical ambiguity that is in the
word notebooks. The word notebooks can be interpret in two ways,
there are: book or kind of laptop. The context of that sentence does
not focus on one of meaning. So both interpretations are true to be
applied in that sentence above.
(16) In Thailand, people celebrate Loi Krathong, a festival
of light and water, on the first full moon in November.
(Backpack 4: 76)
(17) Festival of light in China (Backpack 4: 84)
(18) Festival of light in India (Backpack 4: 84)
Sentence (16), (17), and (18) clearly contain a homonym that
is in the word light. The word light can be interpreted in two ways,
there are: lamp or fire. The context of that sentence does not focus
on one of meaning. So both interpretations are true to be applied in
that sentence above.
(19) After they light the candles and make wishes, people
float them in water. (Backpack 4: 76)
(20) People light candles or small oil lamps and leave them
on all night to drive away the darkness. (Backpack 4:
In sentence (19) and (20) homonym is located in the word
light. The word light can interpret as the experience; burn, turn on,
and kindle. The context of that sentence does not focus on the one
interpretation. So both interpretations are able to be applied in
sentence above.
b)Homophones
Homophones are also included lexical ambiguity. According
to Sennet (2011: 11), the lexicon contains entries that are
homophonous, or even co-spelled, but differ in meanings and even
syntactic categories. From the data source, the writer found 6
homophones. The writer presents that dataas follows:
(1) Endangered animals (Backpack 4: 53)
(2) The Komodo dragon is also endangered. (Backpack 4:
53)
(3) Why animals are extinct or endangered? (Backpack 4:
55)
(4) How did a 12-year-old help endangered animals and
work with stars at the same time? (Backpack 4: 56)
(5) Make endangered animal cards. (Backpack 4: 60)
Sentences above contain homophone that is located in the
word endangered. The word endangered can be interpreted in two
different ways, those are: as endangered or (a species) seriously at
or in danger. Both of them have same pronouncing. The student(s)
usually confuse to choose the correct meaning. The context of that
sentence also does not focus in the one interpretation. So both
interpretations of the word endangered are to be used in those
sentences.
(6) Ask Holly day (Backpack 4: 81)
Sentences above contains homophones that is located in the
word Holly day. The word Holly day can be interpreted in two
different ways, those are: as Holly day that is the column or people
name; and as holiday. Both of them have same pronouncing. The
students are usually confused to choose which one is the true. So
both interpretations of the word Holly day are true to be clear of the
sentence.
c) Polysemes
Krifka in her book Lexical Semantics (1998: 1) explained the
term polysemy as the phenomenon that one and the same word
acquires different, though obviously related, meanings, often with
respect to particular contexts. From the data source, the writer found
18 polysemes. The writer presents that dataas follows:
(1) I like to help her with her homework because I’m
smarter. (Backpack 4: 4)
(2) I help her with her homework sometimes, because I’m
Sentences (1) and (2) above are ambiguous in lexical level
since the preposition with has duality meaning, that is: doing and
accompanying. The context of that sentence does not focus in the
preposition with to be doing an activity or only accompanying. So
both interpretations of the preposition with are true to be applied in
this phrase above.
(3) Write them and call them once in a while. (Backpack 4:
9)
The italic word above is ambiguous because it has the
interpretation as the act of writing a letter; or writing a message by
phone. The word call also has two interpretations, there are:
speaking or sharing with your friends in phone; and speaking or
sharing with your friend face to face. No picture, addition context,
or reference to one clear meaning of the words write and call makes
both interpretation becomes true to be used in this sentence.
(4) Doug’s double bubble gum bubbles double. (Backpack
4: 9)
Sentences (4) clearly contain polysemy that is in the word
bubble(s). The word bubble(s) has more than one meaning, there are:
as a noun that means a thin sphere of liquid enclosing air or another
gas; and as a verb that means (of a liquid) containing bubbles of air
drive into both interpretations. So both interpretations are true to be
applied in sentence (4).
(5) At The World’s Table (Backpack 4: 26)
Sentence above clearly contains polysemy that is in the word
table. The word table has more than one meaning, there are: as food,
a piece of furniture, dining room table, living room table. The
context of that sentence does not focus on the word table to be as
food, a piece of furniture, dining room table, living room table. So
both interpretations of the word table are true to be used in this
sentence.
(6) Yes. I’d like a can of diet soda. (Backpack 4: 27)
(7) _____________ Tin drink diet soda. (Backpack 4: 30)
(8) He doesn’t like diet soda. (Backpack 4: 30)
Sentence (6), (7), and (8) clearly contain polysemes that is in
the word diet. The word diet can be interpreted in two ways, there
are: drink with reduce fat or sugar content, and food to lose weight.
The context of that sentence does not detail in the one of
interpretations. So both interpretations of the word diet are correct to
be applied in sentences above.
(9) Pineapples come from pine trees.(Backpack 4: 33)
Sentence (9) contains polysemy that is in the words pine
trees. The words pine trees have more than one interpretation, there
needle-shaped leaves or in bahasa means pinus and cemara. The context of
that sentence does not clearly focus on one meaning. So both
interpretations of the words pine trees are true to be used in that
sentence.
(10) How did a 12-year-old help endangered animals and
work with stars at the same time? (Backpack 4: 56)
(11) Then Erica went to the stars—Hollywood stars.
(Backpack 4: 56)
(12) Many stars have Erica’s animals. (Backpack 4: 56)
Sentences above contain polysemy that is in the words stars.
The words stars can be interpreted in more than one way, there are:
actors, actresses or actor(s) and actress(s). The context of that
sentence does not clearly focus on one meaning. So both
interpretations of the words stars are true to be used in that sentence.
(13) On sunny days we used to have picnics by the stream.
(Backpack 4: 70)
Sentence (13) above is polysemy since the word stream has
duality meaning, that is: river or school or wind. The context of that
sentence does not focus on the word stream to be river or school or
wind. So both interpretations are clearly to be applied in sentence
(13).
Sentence (14) above is ambiguous in lexical level since the
word animals have more than one meaning, that is: shape stuffed
animals or animal dolls, and the real animals. The context of that
sentence does not focus on one meaning. So both interpretations of
the word animals are true to be applied in this sentence above.
(15) Cristina Aguilera has polar bear. (backpack 4: 56)
Sentence (15) contains polysemy because the italic words
have more than one way to interpret, those are: polar bear doll; and
the other meaning is the real polar bear. The context of that sentence
does not focus on one meaning. So both interpretations are true to be
used in this sentence above.
(16) Mandy Moore has a koala. (backpack 4: 56)
Sentence (16) contains polysemy because the italic words
have more than one way to interpret, those are: koala doll; and the
other meaning is the real koala. The context of that sentence does not
focus on one meaning. So both interpretations are true to be used in
this sentence above.
(17) Other stars bought white tigers, harp seals, black
leopards and gorillas. (Backpack 4: 56)
The sentence above includes polysemy because the italic
words have more than one way to interpret, those are: white tiger
dolls, harp seal dolls, black leopard dolls and gorilla dolls; and the
not focus in the one of meaning. So both interpretations are true to
be used in this sentence above.
Based on the analysis data above the writer presents the table of
types of lexical ambiguity and the example of it as follow:
Table 4.1
Lexical Ambiguity
Types of Lexical Ambiguity Example
Homonym Backpack Song
Homophone Ask Holly day
Polysemy Many starshave Erica’s animals.
b. Referential ambiguity
Ambiguity found in nature of refering expressions is called
referential ambiguity. Kreidler divided referential ambiguity into four
types, those are: referential ambiguity which occurs when an indefinite
referring expression may be specific or not; anaphora; the pronoun you
is used generically or specifically; and a noun phrase with every can
have distributed reference or collected reference.
From the data source, the writer found 74 ambiguous sentences,
consists of: 6 referential ambiguities that occurs when an indefinite
referring expression may be specific or not; 37 anaphora; 26 the
pronoun you is used generically or specifically; and 5 a noun phrase
with every can have distributed reference or collected reference. The
writer presents some ambiguous sentence found in Backpack 4 as
a) Referential ambiguity occurs when an indefinite referring expression may be specific or not.
The writer tries to analyzed the data as follows:
(1) Backpack is full of fun things we use each day in school.
Stories, puzzles, songs, and games— Backpack is really
cool!(backpack4: 1)
The word stories may refer to a specific story, or some
stories, or any stories. In the words puzzles, songs, and games
may refer to specific term or not, too.
(2) Backpack is full of fun and facts, projects and pictures, too.
We’re learning English, we’re never bored. (backpack4: 1)
In the words fun, facts, projects and pictures may refer to
specific term or not.The word fun may be refers to specific fun or
some funs, or any funs. The word fact, projects and pictures may
refer to specific term or not, too
(3) Write them and call them once a while. Keep pictures of your
old friends in an album. (backpack4: 9)
Sentence (3) also has the same problem that is in the
words pictures. The word pictures can refer to the specific
pictures or not.
(4) Busy people have full schedules. (backpack 4: 16)
In sentence (4), ‘busy people’ means all people or some
focus on one meaning. So both interpretations are true to be
applied in this sentence above.
(5) Dear, All Alone (backpack4: 9)
Sentence (5) contains referential ambiguity because the
phrase all alone has more than one reference, there are:
− All Alone refers to the people(s) that is lonely
− All Alone refers to the people(s) that read ‘friends forever
magazine’
The context of that sentence does not focus on one
interpretation. So both interpretations are true to be applied in
those sentences above.
(6) Al shouldn’t run so fast, you know. The sidewalk’s full of ice
and snow. He could fall and slip and slide, and end up right on
his backside! (backpack 4: 38)
Sentence (6) contains anaphora because the word sidewalk
has more than one reference, there are: all sidewalk or each
sidewalk. The context of that sentence does not focus on one
meaning. So both interpretations are true to be used in this
sentence above.
b)Anaphora is unclear because a personal pronoun, he, she, it or they, can be linked to either of two referring expressions
(1)It’s time to open backpack and see what we can see. (backpack
4: 1)
(2)We’ll have lots of adventures. (backpack 4: 1)
(3)Backpack is full of fun things we use each day in school.
(backpack 4: 1)
(4)We’re learning English, we’re never bored. (backpack 4: 1)
Sentences above contain anaphora, because pronoun we
has more than one reference if it is used in the different context,
there are:
− If those sentences are read by reader(s) and it has listener(s),
pronoun we can refers to the reader(s) and the listener(s); or
pronoun we can refers to the writer(s), the reader(s) and the
listener(s).
− If those sentences are read by reader(s) alone; for example
student alone in student’s house and does not have listener(s),
pronoun we can refer to the writer(s) and the reader(s).
(5) Cows have good taste (And we’re not talking about roast beef!)
(backpack 4: 20)
(6) Cows like classical music better than rock and roll. How do we
know? (backpack 4: 20)
(7) Dinosaurs, dinosaurs, what do we know? What were they like,
Sentences above contain anaphora, because pronoun we
have more than one reference if it is used in the different context,
there are:
− Pronoun we refers to the writer(s)
− Pronoun we refers to the writer(s) and the reader
− Pronoun we refers to the writer(s), the listener(s), and the
reader(s).
(8) We must protect the planet for animals large and small. They need
clean air and water to have a chance at all. (backpack 4: 58)
(9) The way we live changes over time. Inventions often change the
way we do things. (backpack 4: 64)
(10) Inventions often change the way we do things. (backpack 4: 64)
Sentences above contain anaphora, because pronoun we
have more than one reference if it is used in the different context,
there are:
− Pronoun we refers to the people all around the world
− Pronoun we refers to the writer(s) and the reader(s)
− Pronoun we refers to the writer(s), the reader(s), and the
listener(s)
− Pronoun we refers to the writer(s)
(11) Sunday, November second, was my birthday parti. Monday,
November third, was a holiday. We took a trip and visited my
(12) We came back home late on Tuesday the fourth (backpack 4: 75)
Sentences above contain anaphora, because pronoun we
have more than one reference if it is used in the different context,
there are:
− Pronoun we refers to the boy in the picture and family.
− Pronoun we refers to the boy in the picture and friends.
(13) Next week Earth Day is coming. What are you going to do?
We’re going to plant some flowers. (backpack 4: 82)
(14) We’re going to clean the playground and pick up trash on the
beach. (backpack 4: 82)
Sentences above contain anaphora, because pronoun we
have more than one reference if it is used in the different context,
there are:
− Pronoun we refers to the reader and friends.
− Pronoun we refers to the writer and friends.
(15) We’ll have alot of adventures. Explore Backpack with me!
(backpack 4: 1)
That sentence above clearly contains anaphora because in
different context, the pronoun me has more than one reference,
there are:
− If those sentences are read by the readers, for example
student wherever he/she is, pronoun me refers to the writer;
− If that sentence is read by reader, for example teacher in the
classroom and has listener(s), pronoun me refers to the
reader itself.
(16) Our new classmates (backpack 4: 3-4)
Sentences above are contains anaphora, because
possessive determiner our have more than one reference if it is
used in the different context, there are:
− Pronoun our refers to the reader(s) and the listener(s);
− Pronoun our refers to the writer(s) and the reader(s).
(17) When does Lyndia get impatient? When her sister doesn’t
understand her homework. (backpack 4: 5)
Sentence (17) contains anaphora because the possessive
pronoun her has more than one reference if it is used in different
context, there are:
− Pronoun her refer to Lyndia.
− Pronoun her refer to Darlene, Lyndia’s younger sister.
(18) Who’s youe best friend? Why? What does he or she look like?
(backpack 4: 13)
Sentences above hold anaphora, because pronoun he or
she has more than one reference if it is used in the different
context, there are:
− Pronoun he or she refers to the listener’s male or female
friend
(19) What does she do in her free time? (backpack 4: 18)
(20) She sings with the tones. (backpack 4: 18)
(21) She ____________ some fruit salad. (backpack 4: 30)
(22) She protects ___________ with a bike helmet. (backpack 4: 49)
(23) What is she going to do on Arbor Day? (backpack 4: 85)
(24) What is she going to do on Earth Day? (backpack 4: 85)
Sentences above are contains anaphora, because pronoun
he or she has more than one reference if it use in the different
context, there are:
− Pronoun she refers to female people.
− Pronoun she refers to the reader’s female friend.
− Pronoun she refers to the listener’s female friend.
(25) You want to know what life was like? Let’s see if you can tell. I
tell you, kids, life back then was special, like a dream(backpack
4: 70)
(26) I used to bring Mom water from our family well. (backpack 4:
70)
(27) I used to walk two miles to school in sun or snow or rain.
(backpack 4: 70)
(28) I copied math onto my slate and then walked home again.
These sentences contain anaphora because the pronoun I
has more than one reference, there are:
− Pronoun I refers to the writer’s grandpa;
− Pronoun I refers to someone’s grandpa.
(29) Animals are all around us. (backpack 4: 58)
(30) They’re around us every day. But, like the ancient dinosaurs,
some might go away. (backpack 4: 58)
Sentences above are called anaphora because the pronoun
us have more than one reference, there are:
− Pronoun us refers to the writer(s);
− Pronoun us refers to the writer(s) and the reader(s);
− Pronoun us refers to the writer(s), the reader and the
listener(s).
(31) Tell us, grandpa (backpack 4: 70)
Sentence (31) contains anaphora because the pronoun us have
more than one reference, there are:
− Pronoun us refers to the grandpa’s grandchild;
− Pronoun us refers to the kids;
− Pronoun us refers to the writer(s);
− Pronoun us refers to the (s) and the reader(s).
(32) They play chess (backpack 4: 18)
(33) What do they do in their free time? (backpack 4: 18)
(35) What would they like? (backpack 4: 27)
Sentences above are includes anaphora because the pronoun
they have more than one reference, there are:
− Pronoun they refers to the people around the world.
− Pronoun they refers to the people around the reader.
− Pronoun they refers to the people around the writer.
(36) What did they do? (backpack 4:63)
Sentence (36) contains anaphora because the pronoun they
have more than one reference, there are:
− Pronoun they refers to the people.
− Pronoun they refers to the past people.
− Pronoun they refers to the people now days.
(37) They’ll give the bags to customers, who’ll use the bags some
more. (backpack 4: 82)
Sentence (37) holds anaphora because the pronoun they
have more than one reference, there are:
− Pronoun they refers to the people around the writer.
− Pronoun they refers to the store employee.
c) The pronoun you is used generically or specifically
The writer tries to analyzes the data as follows:
(1) Good to see you! (backpack 4: 2)
Sentence (1) contains the types of referential ambiguity
different context, the pronoun you have more than one reference
if it use there are:
− If those sentences read by reader alone, for example student
wherever student is, pronoun you refers to the reader(s)
− If those sentences read by reader, for example teacher and has
listener(s), pronoun you refers to the listener(s)
− In If those sentences said by the boy in the text to his friend,
pronoun you refers to his friend that is the girl in the text.
(2) But she’s slow! Do you like to ride bikes, too? (backpack 4: 5)
(3) Are you a good friend? Check the boxes (backpack4: 8)
(4) What are you doing this weekend? Write. (backpack 4:19)
(5) Are you mother’s little helper? (backpack 4: 21)
(6) Smelling apples or bananas every day can help you lose weight.
(backpack 4: 33)
Sentences above are contained the types of referential
ambiguity that is ‘the pronoun you is used generically or
specifically’. In different context, the pronoun you have more
than one reference if it use there are:
− If those sentences read by reader alone, for example student
wherever student is, pronoun you refers to the reader(s)
− If those sentences read by reader, for example teacher and has
listener(s), pronoun you refers to the listener(s)
(8) How much time did you exercise yesterday? (backpack 4: 43)
(9) How many hours of sleep did you get last night? (backpack 4:
43)
(10)How many times did you brush your teeth yesterday? (backpack
4: 43)
(11)How do you take care of yourself? (backpack 4: 43)
In those sentences are include the types of referential
ambiguity that is ‘the pronoun you is used generically or
specifically’. In different context, the pronoun you have more
than one reference if it use there are:
− If those sentences read by reader alone, for example student
wherever student is, pronoun you refers to the reader(s) or the
student(s)
− If those sentences read by the student in the class, pronoun
you refer to the student’s classmate.
(12)Here is a photo of my best friend, Mariko, and me. Can you guess
who is who? (backpack4: 8)
Sentence (12) contains anaphora because the pronoun you
have more than one reference, there are:
− Pronoun you refers to the editor(s) of ‘Friends Forever’
column
− Pronoun you refers to the reader(s)
(13) You are blindfolded and have to break a pinata. Everyone shares
the treats (backpack 4: 80).
(14) You get a birthday pie, not a cake. (backpack 4: 80)
(15) You wear a colorful dress and pass out chocolates at school.
(backpack 4: 80)
(16) Birthday cake candles are lit at sunrise and burn all day. At
dinner, you blow out the candles and make a wish. (backpack 4:
80)
These sentences are contained the types of referential
ambiguity that is ‘the pronoun you is used generically or
specifically’. In different context, the pronoun you have more
than one reference if it use there are:
− Pronoun you refers to the people that live in Mexico, in
Russia, India, and Germany.
− Pronoun you refers to the reader(s)
− Pronoun you refers to the listener(s)
− Pronoun you refers to the reader and the listener(s)
(17) You want to know what life was like? (backpack 4: 70)
(18) Let’s see if you can tell. (backpack 4: 70)
Sentence (17) and (18) includes the types of referential
ambiguity that is ‘the pronoun you is used generically or
specifically’. In different context, the pronoun you have more
− Pronoun you refers to the reader(s)
− Pronoun you refers to the grandpa’s grandson or granpa’s
granddaughter.
(19) A true friend shows you how to do Math. A true friend
remembers your birthday. (backpack 4: 10)
(20) Who’s your best friend? Why? What does he or she look like?
(backpack 4: 13)
(21) What about your week? (backpack 4: 14)
(22) What are you doing this weekend? Write. Compare your list
with a partner’s (backpack 4: 19)
(23) What’s your favorite holiday? What are you going to do that
day? (backpack 4: 79)
That sentences holds anaphora because the pronoun your
have more than one reference, there are:
− If those sentences read by reader(s), for example teacher in
the classroom of the class and has listener(s), Pronoun your
refers to the listener(s), or your refers to the reader(s) and the
listener(s)
− If those sentences read by reader(s) alone; for example
student alone in student’s house and does not have listener(s),
Pronoun your refers to the reader(s) or the student(s)
(24) What is that on your plate? It looks and smells so great.
That sentence includes anaphora because the pronoun your
have more than one reference, there are:
− Pronoun your refers to the children in the picture.
− Pronoun your refers to the Child from Korea or Mexico or
Morocco or Italy.
− Pronoun your refers to the writer friend(s)
− Pronoun your refers to the reader(s) or the listener(s)
(25) Compare yourself to a friend. (backpack4: 7)
Sentence (25) contains anaphora because the pronoun
yourself has more than one references, there are:
− Yourself refers to the reader(s) self
− Yourself refers to the listener(s) self
(26) Swimming in a pool or in the ocean is a lot of fun. Always swim
with another person, and don’t forget use sunscreen on sunny
days to protect yourself. Swimming exercises all the muscles in
the body (backpack 4: 41)
Sentence (26) contains anaphora because the pronoun
yourself has more than one references, there are:
− Yourself refers to the reader(s) self
− Yourself refers to the listener(s) self
d)A noun phrase with every can have distributed reference or collected reference
(1) Everyone should exercise for 30 minutes or more every day.
There are many fun ways to keep in shape (Backpack 4, 40)
Sentence (1) is called referential ambiguity because the
words ‘everyone’ has more than one reference there are: exercise
all people in the world or exercise for each people in the world.
The words ‘every day’ should mean all day or each day.
(2) You _____ exercise every day. (backpack 4: 49)
Sentence (2) is called referential ambiguity because the
words ‘every day’ should mean all day or each day.
(3) ... Later, women in ancient Rome put oil on the paper to keep
rain from coming through. Now everyone has an umbrella of
each cloth or plastic for rainy days. (backpack 4: 65)
Sentence (3) above is called referential ambiguity
because the word ‘everyone’ has more than one reference, there
are: all people in the world or each people in Rome.
(4) You get a blindfolded and have to break a pinata. Everyone
shares the treats. (Jose, Mexico) (backpack 4: 80)
Sentence (4) above is called referential ambiguity
because the word ‘everyone’ has more than one reference, there
are: all people in Mexico or each people in Mexico.
(5) We have noodles for lunch, and everyone wishes you a long life.
Sentence (5) above is called referential ambiguity
because the word ‘everyone’ has more than one reference, there
are: all people in China or each people in China.
The context of sentence (1), (2), (3), (4), and (5) does not
focus on one meaning. So both interpretations are true to be
used in this sentence above.
Table 4.2
Referential Ambiguity
Types of Referential Ambiguity Example
Referential ambiguity occurs when an indefinite referring expression may be specific or not.
Stories, puzzles,
songs, and games—
Anaphora What did they do?
The pronoun you is used generically or
specifically.
Compare yourself to a friend.
A noun phrase with every can have
distributed reference or collected reference
Everyone shares the treats.
c. Surface structure ambiguity
Ambiguity found in surface level of syntactic relationship is called
surface structure ambiguity. According to Kreidler (2002: 169-170) there are
six types of surface structure. From the data source, the writer found 58
ambiguous sentences. It consists of 2 data belonging to constructions
containing the coordinators and and or; 26 data belonging to a coordinate
head with one modifier; 7 data belonging to a head with a coordinate
modifier; 13 data belonging to a head with an inner modifier and an outer
modifier; 10 data belonging to a complement and modifier or two
complements; and 0 data belonging to certain function words, including not,
1) Constructions containing the coordinators and and or
The writer will present the analysis of surface structure ambiguity,
especially in term constructions containing the coordinators and and or.
That is:
(1) People light candles or small oil lamps and leave them on all
night to drive away the darkness. (backpack 4: 76)
Sentence (1) contains structural ambiguity. That sentence is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((People) (((light) ((candles) or ((small) (oil) (lamps))))) and ((leave)
((them) ((on all night)) (((to drive) (away)) ((the) (darkness))))))))
‘After people light candles or small oil lamps, they leave it all night to
ward of darkness’.
− (((People) (((light) ((candles) or ((small) ((oil) (lamps))))) and ((leave)
((them) (on all night))))) (((to drive) (away)) ((the) (darkness))))
‘To drive away the darkness, people light candles or leaving small oil
lamps all night’.
(2) It’s fun to look for and trade cards or shells or rocks.
(backpack 4: 86)
Sentence (2) contains structural ambiguity. That sentence is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((It’s) (((fun) (to look for)) and ((trade) ((cards) or ((shells) or
(rocks))))))
− ((It’s) (((fun) ((to look for) and (trade))) ((cards) or ((shells) or
(rocks)))))
‘It’s fun to look for and trade goods, such as: cards or shells or rocks’.
2) A coordinate head with one modifier.
The writer will present the analysis of surface structure ambiguity,
especially in term a coordinate head with one modifier. That is:
(1)Backpack is full of fun and facts, project and pictures, too.
(backpack 4: 1)
Sentence (1) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Backpack) ((is) ((((full of) (fun)) and (facts)) (((project) and
(pictures)) (too)))))
‘The word full only modifies the word fun, so the word facts may be
mean some facts or any facts’.
− ((Backpack) ((is) (((full of) ((fun) and (facts))) (((project) and
(pictures)) (too)))))
‘The word full modifies the word fun and facts, so both of them may
be mean full of fun and full of facts’.
(2)They are friendly and fun to play with. (backpack 4: 5)
Sentence (2) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((They) ((are) ((friendly) and ((fun) ((to play) (with))))))
− ((They) ((are) (((friendly) and (fun)) ((to play) (with)))))
‘They are friendly to play with and fun to play with’.
(3)She is very friendly and nice. (backpack 4: 8)
Sentence (3) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((She) ((is) (((very) (friendly)) and (nice))))
‘The word very only modifies the word friendly, so the word nice
may be mean nice or little nice’.
− ((She) ((is) ((very) ((friendly) and (nice)))))
‘The word very modifies the word friendly and nice, so both of them
may be mean very friendly and very nice’.
(4) It’s made with rice and chicken (backpack 4:26)
Sentence (4) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((It) (((is made) with (rice)) and (chicken)))
‘A food that is made from rice, and chicken’.
− ((It) ((is made) with ((rice) and (chicken))))
‘A food that is made from mixed of rice and chicken’.
(5) It’s a Moroccan recipe with peppers and tomatoes. (backpack
4:26)
Sentence (5) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
− ((It’s) (((a) (((Moroccan) (recipe)) ((with) (peppers)))) and
(tomatoes)))
‘Maroccan recipes are made from peper, and tomatoes’.
− ((It’s) ((a) (((Moroccan) (recipe)) ((with) ((peppers) and
(tomatoes))))))
‘Maroccan recipes are made from mixture of peper and tomatoes’.
(6) For lunch, I like to have rice and soup with meat and
vegetables. (backpack 4: 28)
Sentence (6) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((For) (lunch)) ((I) (((like) (to have)) ((rice) and ((soup) ((with)
((meat) and (vegetables))))))))
‘For lunch, I like to have rice, soup which is made from meat, and
vegetables’.
− (((For) (lunch)) ((I) (((like) (to have)) (((rice) and (soup)) ((with)
((meat) and (vegetables)))))))
‘For lunch, I like to have rice which is made from meat and
vegetables and soup which is made from meat and vegetables.’
(7) For dinner, my favorite dish is a kind of stew with fish and
onion. (backpack 4: 28)
Sentence (7) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
− (((For) (dinner)) (((my) ((favorite) (dish))) ((is) (((a) (((kind of)
(stew)) ((with) (fish)))) and (onion)))))
‘For dinner, my favorite dish is a kind of stew that made from fish,
and onion as the garnish’.
− (((For) (dinner)) (((my) ((favorite) (dish))) ((is) ((a) (((kind of)
(stew)) with ((fish) and (onion)))))))
‘For dinner, my favorite dish is a kind of stew, with fish and onion as
the garnish’.
− (((For) (dinner)) (((my) ((favorite) (dish))) ((is) ((a) ((kind of)
(((stew) with (fish)) and (onion)))))))
‘For dinner, my favorite dish is a kind of stew which is made from
mixture of fish and onion’.
(8) I eat it with mashed yam and plantain (fufu). (backpack 4:
28)
Sentence (8) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((I) ((eat) (it))) with (((mashed) (yam)) and (plantain)))
‘I eat that food with mashed yam. I eat it with plantain (fufu) too’.
− ((I eat it) with ((mashed) ((yam) and (plantain))))
‘I eat that food with added mashed yam and mashed plantain (fufu)’.
(9) On special occasions, I like to eat Dublin coddle, a meat stew
Sentence (16) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((On) ((special) (occasions))) ((I) (((like) (to eat)) ((Dublin coddle)
((a) (((meat) ((stew with) (sausage))) ((bacon) ((onions) and
(potatoes)))))))))
‘meat that is stew with sausage; bacon; onions; and potatoes’
− (((On) ((special) (occasions))) ((I) (((like) (to eat)) ((Dublin coddle)
((a) (((meat) (stew)) with ((sausage) ((bacon) ((onions) and
(potatoes))))))))))
‘sausage, bacon, onions and potatoes that all cooked with meat stew’
(10)I like to have a bowl of rice, soup, and some grilled fish.
(backpack 4: 29)
Sentence (10) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((I) (((like) (to have)) ((a) (((bowl) ((of) (rice))) ((soup) and ((some)
((grilled) (fish))))))))
‘It means three item that sentence writer likes to have, that is: 1) a
bowl of rice, 2) soup, and 3) some grilled fish’.
− ((I) (((like) (to have)) (((a) (bowl)) ((of) (((rice) ((soup) and ((some)
((grilled) (fish))))))))))
‘It means that sentence writer likes to have a bowl food that is made
(11)Lunch at school is usually noodles, tofu, and curry rice.
(backpack 4: 29)
Sentence (11) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((Lunch) ((at) (school))) (((is) (usually)) ((noodles) ((tofu) and
((curry) (rice))))))
‘It means three item that sentence writer likes in lunch, that is:
noodles, tofu, and curry rice’.
− (((Lunch) ((at) (school))) (((is) (usually)) (((noodles) ((tofu) and
(curry))) (rice))))
‘It means that sentence writer likes to have rice that mixed with
noodles, tofu and curry’.
(12)For dinner, I eat rice mixed with ketchup and chicken inside
an omelet. (backpack 4: 29)
Sentence (12) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((For) (dinner)) ((I) ((eat) (((rice) ((mixed) ((with) (ketchup)))) and
((chicken) ((inside) ((an) (omelet))))))))
‘It means rice mixed with kechup. The chicken is inside an omelet’.
− (((For) (dinner)) ((I) ((eat) ((rice) (((mixed) ((with) ((ketchup) and
(chicken)))) ((inside) ((an) (omelet))))))))
‘It means rice that is mixed with ketchup and chicken. All of it, is
(13)Food fact and fun (backpack 4: 32)
Sentence (13) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((Food) (fact)) and (fun))
‘The word food only modifies the word fact, so the word fun may be
mean thing other than food’.
− ((Food) ((fact) and (fun)))
‘The word food modifies the word fact and fun, so both of them may
be mean food fact and food fun’.
(14)Use the natural pattern of the onion and celery. (backpack 4:
33)
Sentence (14) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Use) ((the) (((natural) (pattern)) ((of) ((the) (onion)))) and
(celery)))
‘Use the natural pattern of the onion and use the celery’.
− ((Use) ((the) (((natural) (pattern)) ((of) ((the) ((onion) and
(celery)))))))
‘Use the natural pattern of the onion. Use the natural pattern of
celery’.
(15)Use would and like. (backpack 4: 37)
Sentence (15) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
− (((Use) (would)) and (like))
‘Use one of the word would and like’.
− ((Use) ((would) and (like)))
‘Use both of the word would and like in one sentence’.
(16)Our safe and sound survey of school nurses and parents
shows that the number one reason kids miss school is
because they have the flu or a bad cold. (backpack 4: 45)
Sentence (16) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((school) (nurses)) and (parents))
‘It means school nurses and any parents’.
− ((school) ((nurses) and (parents)))
‘It means school nurses and school parents’.
(17)They need clean air and water to have a chance at all.
(backpack 4: 58)
Sentence (17) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((They) (((need) (((clean) (air)) and (water))) ((to have) (((a)
(chance)) ((at) (all))))))
‘The water can be clean or not’.
− ((They) (((need) ((clean) ((air) and (water)))) ((to have) (((a)
(chance)) ((at) (all))))))
(18)Before coins and paper money, people used to trade for
things they needed. (backpack 4: 64)
Sentence (18) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((Before) ((coins) and ((paper) (money)))) ((people) ((used to trade)
((for things) ((they) (needed))))))
‘Coins mean the thing in form of metal or toys that made from
metal’.
− (((Before) (((coins) and (paper)) (money))) ((people) ((used to trade)
((for things) ((they) (needed))))))
‘Coin means money that made from metal’.
(19)Takara, a company in Japan, invented a small electronic
machine with buttons and a screen (backpack 4: 68)
Sentence (19) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Takara) (((a) ((company) (in Japan))) ((invented) ((a) ((small)
(((electronic) (machine)) ((with) ((buttons) and ((a) (screen))))))))))
‘The electronic machine with buttons and a screen, has small size’.
− ((Takara) (((a) ((company) (in Japan))) ((invented) ((a) (((small)
((electronic) (machine))) ((with) ((buttons) and ((a) (screen)))))))))
‘The small electronic machine has buttons and screen’.
− ((Takara) (((a) ((company) (in Japan))) ((invented) ((a) (((small)
‘The small electronic machine with button, and a screen’.
(20)Doctors in ancient Egypt used to make it from powdered
stone and vinegar. (backpack 4: 69)
Sentence (20) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((Doctors) ((in) ((ancient) (Egypt)))) ((used to make) ((it) ((from)
((powdered) (stone)) and (vinegar)))))
‘It means stone which is shaped like powder and may be liquid
vinegar’.
− (((Doctors) ((in) ((ancient) (Egypt)))) ((used to make) ((it) ((from)
((powdered) ((stone) and (vinegar)))))))
‘It means both of stone and vinegar have the form like powder’.
(21)They made their yo-yos from ivory and silk cord (backpack
4: 69)
Sentence (21) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((They) ((made) (((their) (yo-yos)) ((from) ((ivory) and ((silk)
(cord)))))))
‘It means an ivory and a cord which made from silk’.
− ((They) ((made) (((their) (yo-yos)) ((from) (((ivory) and (silk))
(cord))))))
(22)The holiday begins celebrations that bring light and hope at
a dark time of the year. (backpack 4: 77)
Sentence (22) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((The) (holiday)) ((begins) ((celebrations) ((that) ((((bring) (light))
and (hope)) ((at) (((a) ((dark) (time))) (of the year))))))))
‘Phrase bring light and hope can means bring light and ecpect a
hope’.
− (((The) (holiday)) ((begins) ((celebrations) ((that) (((bring) ((light)
and (hope))) ((at) (((a) ((dark) (time))) (of the year))))))))
‘Phrase bring light and hope can means bring light and bring hope’.
(23)Good for a hug and a kiss (backpack 4: 81)
Sentence (23) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((Good) ((for) ((a) (hug)))) and (a kiss))
‘It means good for a hug with a kiss’.
− ((Good) ((for) (((a) (hug)) and ((a) (kiss)))))
‘It means good for a hug and good for a kiss’.
(24)I made has beads of different colors and coins in it.
(backpack 4: 89)
Sentence (24) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
− ((I) ((((made) (has)) ((beads) ((of) (((different) (colors)) and
(coins))))) ((in) (it)))
‘The word different only modifies the word colors, so the word
coins may be mean same coins’.
− ((I) ((((made) (has)) ((beads) ((of) ((different) ((colors) and
(coins)))))) ((in) (it)))
‘The word different modifies the word colors and coins, so both of
them may be mean different colors and different coins’.
(25)They wear butterfly crowns and jewels in their hair.
(backpack 4: 100)
Sentence (25) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((They) ((wear) ((((butterfly) (crowns)) and (jewels)) ((in) ((their)
(hair))))))
‘It means the crown which has shaped like butterfly and jewels’.
− ((They) ((wear) (((butterfly) ((crowns) and (jewels))) ((in) ((their)
(hair))))))
(It means both of the crowns and jewels have shaped like butterfly)
(26)This dance is very graceful and beautiful. (backpack4: 100)
Sentence (26) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
‘The word very only modifies the word greceful, so the word
beautiful may be mean only beautiful’.
− (((This) (dance)) ((is) ((very) ((graceful) and (beautiful)))))
‘The word very only modifies the word greceful and beautiful, so
both of them may be mean very graceful and very beautiful’.
3) A head with a coordinate modifier
The writer will present the analysis of surface structure ambiguity,
especially in term a head with a coordinate modifier. That is:
(1)Smelling apples or bananas every day can help you lose
weight. (backpack 4: 33)
Sentence (1) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((((Smelling) (apples)) or (bananas)) ((every) (day))) (((can) (help))
((you) ((lose) (weight)))))
‘This structure means smelling apples or eating bananas’.
− ((((Smelling) ((apples) or (bananas))) ((every) (day))) (((can) (help))
((you) ((lose) (weight)))))
‘This structure means smelling apples or smelling bananas’.
(2) Now you have your own picture frame, card, or paper to
write letters on! (backpack 4: 33)
Sentence (2) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
− ((Now) ((you) ((have) ((((your) (own)) ((picture frame) ((card) or
(paper)))) ((to write) ((letters) (on)))))))
‘This structure means picture frame or may be playing card or white
paper. The word picture only modifies the word frame’.
− ((Now) ((you) ((have) ((((your) (own)) ((picture) ((frame) ((card) or
(paper))))) ((to write) ((letters) (on)))))))
‘This structure means picture frame, picture card, or picture paper.
The world picture modifies the words frame, card and paper’.
(3) You should warm up and stretch before you practice or play
in a game. (backpack 4: 40)
Sentence (3) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((You) ((should) ((warm up) and (stretch)))) ((before) ((you)
((practice) or ((play) ((in) ((a) (game))))))))
‘Phrase in a game only modifies the word play, that may be mean
wherever you practice not only in a game’.
− (((You) ((should) ((warm up) and (stretch)))) ((before) ((you)
(((practice) or (play)) ((in) ((a) (game)))))))
‘Phrase in a game modifies the word practice and play, so that may
be means practice in a game or play in a game’.
(4) Now everyone has an umbrella of each cloth or plastic for
Sentence (4) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Now) ((everyone) ((has) (((an) ((umbrella) ((of) (((each) (cloth)) or
(plastic))))) ((for) ((rainy) (days)))))))
‘The word each only modifies the word cloth, so plastic can mean
each plastic or all plastic’.
− ((Now) ((everyone) ((has) (((an) ((umbrella) ((of) ((each) ((cloth) or
(plastic)))))) ((for) ((rainy) (days)))))))
‘The word each modifies the word cloth and plastic, so that structure
may be mean each cloth or each plastic’.
(5) I say I’m sorry if I get impatient or angry. (backpack 4: 8)
Sentence (5) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((I) ((say) ((I’m) (sorry)))) ((if) ((I) ((get) ((impatient) or
(angry))))))
‘If I get impatient or angry, I say I’m sorry’.
− ((((I) ((say) ((I’m) (sorry)))) ((if) ((I) ((get) (impatient))))) or
(angry))
‘If I get impatient, I say I’m sorry or angry’.
(6) Write questions or answer? (backpack 4: 73)
Sentence (6) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
‘The word write modifies the word question and answer, so both of
them may be mean write question or write answer’.
− (((Write) (questions)) or (answer))
‘The word write only modifies the word question, so the word
answer may be mean answer in written or oral’.
(7) You can take photos or build model planes. (backpack 4:
86)
Sentence (7) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((You) ((can) (((take) (photos)) or ((build) ((model) (planes))))))
‘You can take photos that you like, or you can build model planes’.
− ((You) ((can) ((((take) (photos)) or ((build) (model))) (planes))))
‘You can take photos of the real planes, or you can build model
plane’.
4) A head with an inner modifier and an outer modifier
The writer will present the analysis of surface structure ambiguity,
especially in term a head with an inner modifier and an outer modifier.
That is:
(1) Good times cafe. (backpack 4: 31)
Sentence (1) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((Good) (times)) (cafe))
− ((Good) ((times) (cafe)))
‘Nice clock that is in cafe’
(2) Emergency phone numbers (backpack 4: 44)
Sentence (2) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Emergency) ((phone) (numbers)))
‘Phone number that is used for the benefit of emergency’
− (((Emergency) (phone)) (numbers))
‘Number which is on the emergency phone’
(3) Bike accidents are the number one reason kinds go to the
Hospital emergency room! (backpack 4: 44)
(4) 35% of kids’ visit to the hospital emergency room can be
prevented by using safety equipment. (backpack 4: 45)
Sentence (3) and (4) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((hospital) (emergency))) (room))
‘Space contained in hospital emergency’
− ((hospital) ((emergency) (room)))
‘Emergency room which is take a place in hospital’
(5) Two years ago, Erica Summers started a toy animal
company, Stars in the Wild! (backpack 4: 54)
Sentence (5) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
− ((((Two) (years)) (ago)) ((Erica Summers) ((started) ((((a) ((toy)
(animal))) (company)) ((Stars) ((in) ((the) (Wild))))))))
‘A toy company that specializes in animal-shaped toys’.
− ((((Two) (years)) (ago)) ((Erica Summers) ((started) ((((a) (toy))
((animal) (company))) ((Stars) ((in) ((the) (Wild))))))))
‘A toy that has shaped like toy company’
(6) There are great new things to do! (backpack 4: 1)
Sentence (6) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((There) ((are) (((great) ((new) (things))) (to do))))
‘Things which is great and new’.
− ((There) ((are) (((great) ((new) (things))) (to do))))
‘New things which is great’
(7) Try to say these tongue twisters fast! (backpack 4: 9)
Sentence (7) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((Try) (to say)) ((these) ((tongue) ((twisters) (fast)))))
‘The sentence that should be said is ‘these tongue twisters fast’’
− (((Try) ((to say) (these))) ((tongue) ((twisters) (fast))))
‘The sentence that should be said is ‘tongue twisters fast’’
(8) International club dinner. (backpack 4: 26)
Sentence (8) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
− (((International) (club)) (dinner))
‘International clubs which is often hold dinner’
− ((International) ((club) (dinner)))
‘Dinner club which is consists of people from around the world’
(9) Silent alarm clock (backpack 4: 68)
Sentence (9) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((Silent) (alarm)) (clock))
‘Clock which is contained silent alarm application’.
− ((Silent) ((alarm) (clock)))
‘Alarm clock which cannot beep’.
(10)Black highlighter pen (backpack 4: 68)
Sentence (10) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Black) ((highlighter) (pen)))
‘Highlighter pen which is covered with black color’.
− (((Black) (highlighter)) (pen))
‘Black highlighter which is shaped like a pen’.
(11)Transparent playing cards (backpack 4: 68)
Sentence (11) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((Transparent) (playing)) (cards))
− ((Transparent) ((playing) (cards)))
‘Played cards with honest’
(12)Families watch fireworks and eat small round dumplings.
(backpack 4: 77)
Sentence (12) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Families) (((watch) (fireworks)) and ((eat) ((small) ((round)
(dumplings))))))
‘Families watch fireworks and eat round dumplings which have small
size’
− ((Families) (((watch) (fireworks)) and ((eat) (((small) (round))
(dumplings)))))
‘Families watch fireworks and eat dumpings which is small and
round’
(13)Good luck lantern (backpack 4: 83)
Sentence (13) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is
ambiguous because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Good) ((luck) (lantern)))
‘The lantern of luck which is in good condition’
− (((Good) (luck)) (lantern))
‘Lantern that reads ‘good luck’.
The writer will present the analysis of surface structure ambiguity,
especially in term a head with an inner modifier and an outer modifier.
That is:
(1) People eat a lot of seafood in Ecuador. (backpack 4: 35)
Sentence (1) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((People) ((eat) ((a lot) ((of) ((seafood) (in Ecuador))))))
‘People eat a lot of seafood that is made in Ecuador’.
− (((People) ((eat) ((a lot of) (seafood)))) (in Ecuador))
‘In Ecuador, people eat alot of seafood’.
(2) Five friends flee from five fat flies fast. (backpack 4: 9)
Sentence (2) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((((Five) (friends)) ((flee) ((from) ((five) ((fat) (flies)))))) (fast)
‘Five friends flee fast from five fat flies’.
− (((Five) ((friends) (flee))) ((from) (((five) ((fat) (flies))) (fast))))
‘Five friends flee from five fat flies which is moving fast’.
(3) At the International Music Festival, I watch a folk dance
from Mexico. (backpack 4: 100)
Sentence (3) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((At) ((International) ((Music) (Festival)))) ((I) ((watch) ((a) (((folk)
‘Music Festival that is held around the world’
− (((At) (((International) (Music)) (Festival))) ((I) ((watch) ((a) (((folk)
(dance)) ((from) (Mexico)))))))
‘Festival which is showed International mucicion’
(4) In this dance, teenegers dress up like little old men and
imitate them. (backpack 4: 100)
Sentence (5) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((In) ((this) (dance)) ((teenegers) (((((dress) (up)) (like)) ((little)
((old) (men)))) and ((imitate) (them)))))
‘In this dance, teenegers dress up like old men that has a small body
and imitate them’.
− (((In) ((this) (dance)) ((teenegers) (((((dress) (up)) (like)) (((little)
(old)) (men))) and ((imitate) (them)))))
‘In this dance, teenegers dress up like a men that is a litte old and
imitate them’.
(5) Clowns make fun of the “little old men”. (backpack 4: 100)
Sentence (5) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Clowns) ((make) ((fun) ((of) ((the) ((little) ((old) (men))))))))
‘Clowns make fun of old men who has short body’
− ((Clowns) ((make) ((fun) ((of) ((the) (((little) (old)) (men)))))))
(6) Greek line dance(backpack 4: 101)
Sentence (6) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((Greek) (line)) (dance))
‘Dance which is moved like Greek line’
− ((Greek) ((line) (dance)))
‘Line dance which is come from Greek’
(7) American square dance (backpack 4: 101)
Sentence (7) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− (((American) (square)) (dance))
‘Dance which is moved like American square’
− ((American) ((square) (dance)))
‘Square dance which is come from America’
(8) Dances around the world (backpack 4: 104)
Sentence (8) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Dances) ((around) ((the) (world))))
‘Dances that is come from around the world’.
− ((Dances around) (the world))
‘Peope in the world that dances around’.
Sentence (9) is an instance of structural ambiguity. It is ambiguous
because it has more than one sentence construction, there are:
− ((Ritual) ((rain) (dances)))
‘Rain dances that is the name of the ritual to summon rain’.
− (((Ritual) (rain)) (dances))
‘Dances that is used tosummon rain’.
(10) Traditional folk dance (backpack 4: 107)
Sentence (10) is an instance of s