ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

Contextual explanation · NAV-G04-020

Sign–object relation

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

Explanation

The sign–object relation in this semiotic context concerns the relationship through which a sign is about or refers to something. Its object need not be tangible: an event, possibility or fictional situation may become the object of sign use under the relevant account. The interpretant must be distinguished from that object; it concerns a mediating interpretation or sign effect rather than simply the object itself. Precise formulations depend on the semiotic theory. This entry introduces the relational question without treating a physical arrow from sign to thing as a complete explanation.

Movement of thought

1. Identify the sign in use. 2. Describe its possible object. 3. Reconstruct the mediating interpretation. 4. Test alternative object relations. 5. Name the theoretical framework.

Example

A plan can concern a building that has not yet been constructed. Its object is therefore not simply an existing structure at that location.

Counter-test

The feeling a sign produces is not automatically identical with the object to which it refers.

Scientific use case

Semiotic research can annotate object relations and interpretive sequences separately and examine their interdependence.

Effect

The distinction prevents sign effect and object from collapsing into one another.

Resonance

A sign opens a relationship whose object need not stand before our eyes.

Distinction

Distinguish the sign–object relation from the interpretant, association alone, physical resemblance and the grammatical object.

Sources