This thesis attempts to explain the functions of the preposing of the direct object in Japanese. Japanese is generally a verb-final language and the basic word order is Subject (S) -> Object (O) -> Verb (V). However, it also has relatively free word order, and a direct object can be preposed to the sentence-initial position forming OSV word order. Although clauses expressed in SOV and OSV word orders are semantically identical, OSV is used much less frequently in comparison to SOV. This thesis examines the motivations behind the preposing of direct objects. As a first step toward understanding the possible functions of OSV word order, this thesis analyzes characteristics of preposed direct objects in its data collected from written materials. The results show that both structural characteristics and the information status of direct objects play roles in preposing. Structural characteristics found in preposed direct objects are that they tend to be lengthy, tend to contain demonstratives, or tend not be a direct object component of idiomatic expressions formed with a direct object and a verb. Preposed direct objects tend to convey information that is either linked to the preceding discourse, is linked to the hearer's knowledge, or is emphasized. The findings also show that the preposing of direct objects is motivated by various reasons depending on what is required to enhance communication in the context. Direct objects that have structurally different characteristics, namely those that contain demonstratives or long direct object phrases, are preposed for easier sentence processing or reference. In order to avoid ambiguity, preposing does not occur when the process would split an idiomatic expression comprised of a direct object and a verb. Preposing of direct objects conveying information linked to either the preceding discourse or the hearer's knowledge creates relevance between the preceding discourse and the present proposition. Preposing direct objects structurally indicates what information is emphasized. In other words, the preposing of direct objects facilitates effective communication.

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This thesis proposes an analysis of the tough construction in Japanese. It is proposed that there are actually two tough constructions, each derived by a different kind of movement. Three kinds of data which support the claim made here are presented: tough constructions with scrambling, tough constructions with reflexives, and nominals derived from tough constructions. It is argued that non-movement analysis is not appropriate and that both tough constructions are derived by movement. It is shown that tough constructions with a 'tend to' reading can also be accommodated by this analysis. The analysis accounts for a wide range of interactions between tough constructions and other phenomena, which have not been previously focused on in the literature.

This study uses a phenomenological methodology to understand Japanese women, living in Tohoku region, Japan, who have the experience of alcohol dependency and recovery. Moreover, the purpose of the study was to understand what would be the most effective ways if supporting women in rural communities. Six women were interviewed to obtain the meanings they attach to recovery. Nine themes emerged. It was found that the women had common turning points prior to beginning their recovery, and had adopted various changes in their process of recovery. For all women in the study, the essential meaning of recovery was to live and to live fully. Recommendations are presented regarding the advocacy required to create the conditions necessary for women to live fully. This involves greater education of the community at large about alcohol dependency and the creation of supportive environments for individuals in recovery and their families.

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This study uses a phenomenological methodology to understand Japanese women, living in Tohoku region, Japan, who have the experience of alcohol dependency and recovery. Moreover, the purpose of the study was to understand what would be the most effective ways if supporting women in rural communities. Six women were interviewed to obtain the meanings they attach to recovery. Nine themes emerged. It was found that the women had common turning points prior to beginning their recovery, and had adopted various changes in their process of recovery. For all women in the study, the essential meaning of recovery was to live and to live fully. Recommendations are presented regarding the advocacy required to create the conditions necessary for women to live fully. This involves greater education of the community at large about alcohol dependency and the creation of supportive environments for individuals in recovery and their families.

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