I think it’s sort of related to the way the Chinese language works. You know, one character, pronounced using different tones = different meanings.

In this case, the first use of the word is like an accent on the second word. Notice how the sound pops up at the end of that first use almost as if it’s taking the brunt of the question mark that will be placed at the end of the second use.

The emphasis + the question-y uptick = “very” or “more.”

A drink drink contains an above average amount of alcohol (what is “average” depends, of course, on the imbiber in question)

A sweater sweater is a much warmer sweater than the usual sweater. Not the light “token” sweater one might tie around one’s waist just in case. A sweater sweater is the sort of sweater one has to commit to. It’s probably bulky and won’t fit into one’s bag very well.

It makes complete sense, and I have no idea why men haven’t incoporated this verbal refinement into their own conversations.

Liz