Linguistic Categorization: Prototypes in Linguistic Theory - Softcover

Taylor, John R.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0198239181 ISBN 13: 9780198239185

Publisher: Oxford University Press, 1991

Synopsis

This book explores the far-reaching implications for linguistic theory of Eleanor Rosch's seminal work on categorization. A common assumption is that all members of a category necessarily share a common set of attributes. Rosch's research suggest, instead that categories are definable in the first instance in terms of best examples--or "prototypes"--and that things get associated with the category on the basis of some kind of similarity with the prototype. John R. Taylor extends the prototype approach from its obvious applications to lexical semantics, opening up exciting possibilities for the study of morphology, syntax, and phonology. He explores a number of topics along the way, including the encyclopedic nature of all semantic knowledge, the redundancy of pragmatics, the phenomenon of polysemy, the processes of metonymic and metaphorical extension, and language acquisition.

About this title

About the Author

John R. Taylor, Reader in Linguistics, University of Otago.

Review

"A stimulationg, eminently readable demonstration of the use of prototypical forms of analysis within cognitive linguistics"--Linguistics

"The best treatment of prototype theory currently available; clearly written, comprehensive."--Dr C.S. Butler, University of Nottingham

"Taylor's book is a good introductory text for anyone interested in cognitive grammar. It offers a valuable overview of the state of the art in the field of prototype research as well as an interesting account of linguistic categorization."--Cognitive Linguistics

"There can be no doubt that, as a survey, it is very useful....The book is very well organised and very clearly written."--Lingua

"The book is clear enough to be used as a textbook and its recent appearance in paperback will be an added attraction."--Journal of Pragmatics

Cognitive Linguistics is a vibrant, ever expanding field....John Taylor's book, which is very readable and relatively short...is one of the best 'introductions' to the field that I know of."--Word

Edition details

• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Publication date: 1991
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0198239181
• ISBN 13: 9780198239185
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 286