Corpus Pragmatics

The study of pragmatic phenomena is facilitated by linguistic corpora, which are undergoing diversification. This Element provides an overview of state-of-the-art corpus-pragmatic methods, covering established methods and innovative approaches, and identifies areas where new methodological developments are needed to make new types of data accessible for pragmatic research.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 75 pages
Publication date: 09 March 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

The study of pragmatic phenomena presents a rich tapestry of challenges and opportunities, and a wide array of corpora offers invaluable resources for exploring these phenomena. This Element delves into the intricacies of utilizing different types of corpora to uncover insights into pragmatic behavior. By adopting a hands-on approach to methods and data, we aim to provide guidance for methodological decisions. Furthermore, we identify areas where innovative methodological developments are required to unlock the full potential of new types of data for pragmatic research.

The landscape of linguistic corpora is undergoing a fascinating transformation. On the one hand, there is a growing trend towards the creation of increasingly large corpora, which provide a vast repository of linguistic data for analysis. On the other hand, there is a simultaneous push towards enhancing corpora with more specialized and layered annotation, enabling researchers to delve deeper into nuanced pragmatic aspects.

These trends present both exciting challenges and remarkable opportunities for the study of pragmatics. Large corpora offer the advantage of capturing a wide range of linguistic phenomena and allowing for robust statistical analysis, while specialized and layered annotation enables a more fine-grained understanding of pragmatic phenomena within specific contexts. However, the sheer volume and complexity of large corpora can also pose challenges, such as the need for efficient data management and analysis techniques.

To address these challenges and capitalize on the opportunities presented by different types of corpora, this Element provides a comprehensive overview of state-of-the-art corpus-pragmatic methods in relation to various corpus data. We cover established methods, such as frequency analysis and collocation studies, as well as innovative approaches, such as discourse analysis and machine learning techniques. By exploring these methods, researchers can gain a deeper understanding of pragmatic behavior and develop more effective tools for analyzing and interpreting linguistic data.

Moreover, this Element recognizes the importance of making new types of data accessible for pragmatic research. We discuss the challenges associated with collecting and annotating data from non-standard languages, as well as the potential benefits of leveraging digital technologies and social media to expand the scope of pragmatic research. By embracing these new avenues, we can broaden our understanding of pragmatic phenomena and contribute to the development of more comprehensive and nuanced theories of language use.

In conclusion, the study of pragmatic phenomena is a vibrant and dynamic field, and a wide range of corpora offers immense potential for uncovering insights into pragmatic behavior. By adopting a hands-on approach to methods and data, leveraging innovative methodologies, and embracing new data sources, we can advance our understanding of pragmatics and make significant contributions to the field. This Element serves as a valuable resource for researchers seeking to explore the complexities of pragmatic phenomena and develop new tools for analyzing and interpreting linguistic data.

Weight: 154g
Dimension: 227 x 153 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781009095082