ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

Contextual explanation · NAV-G03-016

Grammar

This explanation addresses the term in its originating context. It is not an additional canonical Atlas profile.

Explanation

Grammar may denote a language's structured system, its scientific description or a prescriptive account. In the reference from anthimeria, the important issue is the relation between word class and actual use. An unusual occurrence may exploit a productive pattern rather than simply violate a rule. Analysis therefore first asks which structural possibilities are being used, rather than whether the expression sounds elegant or correct. Its rhetorical salience can then be examined in context.

Movement of thought

1. Examine a form in its sentence. 2. Compare its usual and current functions. 3. Test available productive patterns. 4. Separate structural description from evaluation. 5. Explain the rhetorical effect in context.

Example

The invented phrase “a resolute maybe” places an expression with other familiar uses at the centre of a noun phrase. Its effect calls for constructional analysis.

Counter-test

Rarity alone does not establish ungrammaticality.

Scientific use case

Corpus evidence and acceptability judgements can test whether a pattern is widespread, productive or context-dependent.

Effect

Grammar reveals possibilities and constraints in linguistic design.

Resonance

Regularity provides the background against which a small displacement becomes audible.

Distinction

Keep linguistic system, grammar book, prescription and stylistic preference distinct.

Sources