Table 2 Semantic-functional classification of boosters.
From: Reconstructing stance in EFL doctoral thesis writing through generative artificial intelligence
Semantic function | Definition and examples | Correspondence to existing classifications |
|---|---|---|
Expression of certainty | Emphasizes the indisputability of a proposition, reflecting the author’s confidence. Examples: clearly, undoubtedly. | Corresponds to Hyland’s Certainty Boosters (evidently) and Hu’s cognitive adjectives/adverbs (clearly). |
Emphatic expression | Highlights the importance or priority of a specific viewpoint. Examples: particularly, especially. | Corresponds to Hyland’s Intensity Boosters (particularly) and Hu’s cognitive adjectives/adverbs (especially). |
Absolute expression | Reinforces the exclusivity of a proposition through extreme vocabulary. Examples: always, never. | Corresponds to Hyland’s Extremity Boosters (always, never). |
Conclusive expression | Summarizes arguments or derives logical outcomes to enhance persuasiveness. Examples: therefore, thus. | Corresponds to Hu’s cognitive verbs (show, demonstrate) and Hyland’s Certainty Boosters (thus). |
