ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-DEP4-0006 · ATLAS 251

Garden-path sentence

A temporarily ambiguous sentence whose initially preferred analysis must later be revised.

Explanation

A temporarily ambiguous sentence whose initially preferred analysis must later be revised. Reveals comprehension as continuous prediction: the mind commits early and must backtrack when continuation contradicts it.

Example

The horse raced past the barn fell.

Counterexample

A mere label without the described formal, cultural or conceptual movement.

Distinction

Distinguish from Ambiguität; the neighbour remains connected as a crossway.

Effect on thought and perception

Reveals comprehension as continuous prediction: the mind commits early and must backtrack when continuation contradicts it.

Resonance

Reveals comprehension as continuous prediction: the mind commits early and must backtrack when continuation contradicts it.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Garden-path sentence“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-DEP4-0006. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-DEP4-0006

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-DEP4-0006

The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.