A DISCOURSE Analysis of Davao City Ordinances: Language Ambiguity in FOCUS

Abstract

This study focused on the language ambiguities of Davao City ordinances. The forms of language  ambiguity, the specific constructs explicating these ambiguities, the problems that may arise from  these ambiguities, and the disambiguation techniques were specifically described in this study.  The research materials were the 30 Davao City ordinances. Results revealed that the Davao City  ordinances contain lexical and syntactic ambiguities. The specific constructs that explicate these  ambiguities include hierarchical lexical relations, sense extension, semantic network theory,  phraseologism, pro-drop parameter, null T-head in tense phrase, infinitival T-to-C raising,  complementizer deletion, non-finite CP deletion, reduced clause analysis, null determiner phrase  (Null DP), number misalignment, pronoun-antecedent relationships, implicit morphemes, and  orthographic structure. Further, the essential themes on the problems that may arise from these  ambiguities include communication breakdown, inconsistency of enforcement, legal confusion,  daily life disruption, and inequitable enforcement. Lastly, the methods of disambiguation include  definition clarification, word sense disambiguation, literal reformulation, explicit markings,  complementizer restoration, correct case selection, structural modification, and orthographic and  punctuation correction.