Semantic Network Makes Things More Problematic : Use of Vertical Axis Prepositions by Japanese Learners of English

Correct use of articles and prepositions are the most grammatically challenging task for Japanese learners of English. The intricate semantic network utilized by native speakers of English has been shown by recent studies in cognitive linguistic framework to be one of the reasons why the task is so difficult. The present study examines how Japanese learners of English progress in using English prepositions which express vertical axis, namely, above, over, under and below, from lower to higher proficiency levels in a Japanese Learner English corpus. By examining the extent of each sense in the semantic network of the four prepositions used by the participants, this study tries to show the simultaneous process of development in both variety and progression of semantic network usage in foreign language learning