Transformation of malay head modifier noun phrase into a thematic relation structure

Abstract

In this paper, we attempt to describe a transformation process of a Malay head modifier sentence into a thematic relation structure. The head modifier inside a Malay sentence can be determined by completing a comprehensive analysis of the Malay grammatical structure. The analysis includes evaluating and verifying the words in Malay sentence, which have causal relationship between a head and noun modifier (inti dan penerang nama) or head and non-noun modifier (inti dan penerang bukan nama). The classification of head and noun modifier or head and non-noun modifier can assist us to identify clearly the potential of a word in the Malay sentence whether it is either a head or modifier. These words' classifications are useful when constructing thematic relation structure. To produce the relations, it requires us to define the thematic relation categories for the words. The name of the thematic relation categories also requires linguist to verify the correctness of the thematic relation name suggested. Based on the verified categories, we can easily nominate the pair of words in Malay sentence, which follows the thematic relation structure characterized. The overall concept presented in this paper will assist us to identify perspicuously what are the basic components and their specifications that should exist in the process. On the other hand, it is also important to point out the possible drawbacks and constraints of the initial approach suggested. © 2011 IEEE.