
A Critical Introduction to Syntax
Jim Miller(Author)
Continuum Publishing Corporation
Published on 17. March 2011
Book
Hardback
288 pages
978-0-8264-9703-1 (ISBN)
Description
This book introduces, analyzes and critiques the main areas of debate within the field of syntax. This book introduces the main areas of debate within the field of syntax. Jim Miller analyzes the major themes in syntactic research, paying attention to overlooked non-generative theories and the adoption of the same concepts across different models of grammar. The book analyzes the difference between spoken and written syntax, standard and non-standard syntax, grammar and usage, and addresses concerns such as grammatical prescription. Examples are drawn from a range of everyday examples extracted from corpus data, to present an analysis of how syntax is used in the real world. Comprehensive, accessible and challenging, this book is essential reading for students taking introductory courses in syntax and syntactic theory, both at undergraduate and postgraduate level. "Continuum Critical Introductions to Linguistics" are comprehensive introductions to core areas in linguistics. The introductions are original and approach the subject from unique and different perspectives. Using contemporary examples and analogies, these books seek to explain complicated issues in an accessible way.
The books prompt critical thinking about each core area, and are a radical departure from traditional, staid introductions to the subject. Written by key academics in each field who are not afraid to be controversial, each book will be essential reading for undergraduate students.
The books prompt critical thinking about each core area, and are a radical departure from traditional, staid introductions to the subject. Written by key academics in each field who are not afraid to be controversial, each book will be essential reading for undergraduate students.
Reviews / Votes
"An exploration of the syntax of real language, both spoken and written, which unearths fascinating examples, showing just how different the two can be -- and how challenging they are for linguists of different persuasions." -- Greville Corbett, Distinguished Professor of Linguistics, University of Surrey, UKMore details
Series
Language
English
Place of publication
New York
United States
Target group
Professional and scholarly
Dimensions
Height: 240 mm
Width: 161 mm
Thickness: 20 mm
Weight
599 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-8264-9703-1 (9780826497031)
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Schweitzer Classification
Person
Jim Miller is Professor of Cognitive Linguistics at the University of Auckland, New Zealand.
Content
Introduction and Acknowledgments; 1. Theory, Data and Analysis; 2. Dependency Relations; 3. Configurationality; 4. Constructions; 5. Grammaticality; 6. Usage-based analysis; 7. Grammar and Semantics: the get passive; 8. Grammar and; Semantics: wh words; 9. Grammar and Semantics: parts-of-speech; 10. Grammar and Semantics: thematic roles; 11. Language Complexity; 12. First Language Acquisition; Epilogue; Bibliography; Index.