Corpus Linguistics and the Analysis of Sociolinguistic Change: Language Variety and Ideology in Advertising

Corpus Linguistics and the Analysis of Sociolinguistic Change explores how media representations of language reflect changing ideologies and sociolinguistic change. It examines ads broadcast on an Irish radio station between 1977 and 2017, using corpus linguistic tools to analyze accents and dialects. The book demonstrates the key principles of corpus design for sociolinguistics studies, offers a framework for future research, and identifies factors contributing to sociolinguistic change. It is a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students in sociolinguistics and corpus linguistics.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 268 pages
Publication date: 13 June 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Corpus Linguistics and the Analysis of Sociolinguistic Change delves into the intricate dynamics of language choices and representations in the media, unveiling the shifting ideologies and sociolinguistic transformations. By utilizing a comprehensive corpus of advertisements broadcast on an Irish radio station spanning from 1977 to 2017, this book showcases the innovative application of corpus linguistic tools, alongside frameworks and concepts such as audience and referee design, indexicality, and the exploitation of accents and dialects (vernacular and prestige). Moreover, it serves as a valuable resource for researchers and advanced students engaged in sociolinguistic and corpus linguistic studies.

The book offers a comprehensive framework for designing sociolinguistic corpora, particularly in the context of advertising on social media. It provides a detailed model for analyzing corpus data at both inter-varietal and intra-varietal levels, encompassing both accent and dialectal features. The authors explore the effectiveness of employing specific corpus linguistic tools and identify key factors that serve as evidence for sociolinguistic change, linking these factors to relevant theories and frameworks.

One of the notable aspects of the book is its demonstration of how corpus tools can be used to compare advertising discourse with naturally occurring discourse, with a particular focus on markers of (pseudo) intimate discourse. By examining the linguistic choices and patterns in these contexts, researchers gain valuable insights into the ways in which advertising language shapes and reflects societal norms and attitudes.

Building upon the growing body of research related to variation and change in Irish English, Corpus Linguistics and the Analysis of Sociolinguistic Change assumes a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of language dynamics and sociolinguistic processes. It serves as a valuable resource for researchers, advanced students, and practitioners seeking to explore the complexities of language in contemporary society.

Weight: 500g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032337821