Abstract
The paper is a case study of 處 as a polyfunctional word showing the transformation of a location marker to an aspect one. Te3 處 as a locative word cannot be referential unless it is coupled with demonstratives. Te3 處 unadorned by demonstratives tends to lead to an aspectual marker. It functions as a continuative aspect marker in the post-verbal position, whereas itcan be construed as a progressive or continuative aspect marker in the preverbal position. It often takes on an additional imperative force as a post-verbal continuative aspect marker. The meaning of a word cannot be pinned down without referring to the structure in which it is located. Examination of textual evidences enables us to map out the path of grammaticalization.