ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-NAV-G01-004 · ATLAS 259

Paraphrase

A paraphrase restates linguistically expressed content while claiming to preserve its relevant meaning.

Part of the subject path Syntax and Grammar

Why is this entry in the Atlas?

F · Figure / procedure R1 · Distinct contribution to understanding

Paraphrase enables testing preserved meaning under changed wording and supports comparisons of reformulation and translation. The aspects claimed to remain equivalent must be stated explicitly.

Colours and admission grounds

The rectangular label identifies the entry function: F – linguistic figure or procedure; A – analytical concept; G – foundational concept; E – selected concrete case. The rounded badge indicates the admission ground: R1 – distinctive contribution; R2 – necessary foundation; R3 – justified illustrative case. This editorial rationale explains the current selection rather than claiming an undocumented original selection history.

Explanation

A paraphrase restates linguistically expressed content while claiming to preserve its relevant meaning. Preservation must be tested: quantifiers, negation, temporal relations and uncertainty must not quietly change. A more accessible formulation may evoke different associations, so equivalence need not extend to every dimension. Paraphrasing makes understanding answerable to the ability to say something differently and account for the changes. Translation adds a change of language; paraphrase does not require one.

Movement of thought

1. Identify the statement and its context. 2. Isolate its claims and qualifications. 3. Choose a different verbal form. 4. Compare what each version adds, omits or licenses. 5. Specify the respects in which meaning has been preserved.

Scientific use case

Semantics, translation studies and argument analysis can compare the inferences licensed by each version. Learning research can distinguish understanding from mechanical substitution.

Example

Assuming each route is either open or closed, “Not every route is closed” becomes “At least one route is open.” The second wording makes the minimum logical commitment explicit.

Counterexample

“Every route is open” changes the quantifier and misrepresents the original. Substituting synonyms alone does not demonstrate equivalence.

Distinction

Distinguish paraphrase from summary, quotation, translation and expolitio. Restatement need not shorten, change languages or rhetorically expand a text.

Effect on thought and perception

New wording can make a familiar thought accessible while shifting its emphasis.

Resonance

A thought returns in another voice; what survives the change reveals its outline.

Provenance

Parallel source review reconciled 2026-10-07; human specialist review not claimed.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Paraphrase“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-NAV-G01-004. ATLAS 259, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-NAV-G01-004

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-NAV-G01-004

The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. Editorial reading state: 2026-10-15. Include your access date for precise references.