1. Introduction

This article elaborates on the importance of comparative research between English and Chinese and its position in theoretical linguistics, while pointing out three main issues in current research: 1) whether to delve into the semantic differences behind the structural differences between English and Chinese; 2) Should structural and semantic differences be treated equally; 3) Should we further analyze the conceptual differences between the English and Chinese ethnic groups based on structural differences. Solving these problems is crucial for promoting the in-depth development of language comparative research.

2. Research status of the three major issues

The three major issues of comparative research between English and Chinese are discussed in detail in the paper, including the external and internal aspects of language. The external level mainly focuses on tangible structures such as pronunciation, vocabulary, phrases, syntax, etc., while the internal level involves intangible essence such as semantics, pragmatics, and national conceptualization methods. Current research mostly focuses on structural differences, with insufficient attention paid to the semantic differences behind them. For example, the differences in word order and location adverbials between English and Chinese causal sentences reflect deep semantic and conceptual differences. Some studies attempt to equate structural and semantic differences, but often overlook the impact of structural differences on semantics. In addition, some studies directly explore the differences in semantic and ethnic conceptualization methods, without fully considering structural differences. For example, the composition of "universe" and "dan" reveals different understandings of time and space concepts between the East and the West. The paper emphasizes that in-depth analysis of language structure differences is crucial for understanding their semantic expression and conceptualization, and should not confuse structural and semantic differences.

3. Analysis of language structure differences is the gateway to observing and describing semantic differences

Deeply explored the importance of language structural differences in understanding the inherent semantic differences in language. The author points out that the external structure of language is the key to understanding its internal semantics, and ignoring structural differences will lead to misunderstandings of semantics. Quoting the views of Xu Siyi and Dubois, it emphasizes the core position of language structure in language research. Through specific examples, such as the differences in expressing temporality and spatiality between English and Chinese, it demonstrates how language structure affects semantic expression. At the same time, the author also mentioned the application of language comparative research in foreign language teaching, emphasizing the role of comparative analysis in revealing learning difficulties and organizing teaching. In addition, the differences in the expression of objective world details in different languages and their impact on language learning were also discussed.

4. Analysis of language structure differences and semantic differences is a way to explain the differences in ethnic conceptualization

Deeply explored the relationship between language structure differences and semantic differences, and regarded it as a key approach to understanding the differences in conceptualization methods among different ethnic groups. The article points out that differences in language structure are not only the starting point for observing semantic differences, but also the foundation for exploring differences in ethnic conceptualization methods. By analyzing the differences in language structure and semantic expression, the fundamental differences in national thinking patterns can be revealed. The article cites the views of multiple scholars and emphasizes that language structure is a reflection of national thinking patterns, and the structural differences between different languages reflect the worldviews and ways of thinking of different ethnic groups.

5. Conclusion

Comparative research between English and Chinese should focus on individual differences between languages, explore semantic and conceptual differences through analyzing structural differences, and reveal the thinking patterns of different ethnic groups.