Stock phrases

Stock phrases, taoyu, also called meta-narrative formulary phrases, are here understood as a subcategory of the fixed phrases . They are treated apart, because of their particular narrative functions, defined as words or phrases that serve as meta-narrative markers of the shifting of mode, time or focus of the tale. This part of the formulary language seems closely associated with conventions of genre.

The stock phrases include:

• Verse-introductory expressions
• Formulary expressions of narrative transition and progression
• Formulary phrases of simulated dialogue with the audience

View all stockphrases