Things And Stuff

The relationship between mass and count nouns is explored in this book, which looks at how languages differ in their methods for describing these two fundamental categories of reality and how they apply to abstract nouns. It is essential reading for researchers in formal semantics and linguistic typology.

Format: Paperback
Length: 441 pages
Publication date: 03 August 2023
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

A classical perspective posits that reality encompasses both tangible entities and intangible aspects, necessitating a means to discuss these multifaceted dimensions. This objective is attained by employing distinct terminology to refer to things, characterized by their +count nature, and to stuff, characterized by their +mass nature. By bringing together the insights of esteemed experts from diverse fields, this comprehensive book delves into the intricate interplay between mass and count nouns within various syntactic contexts and across a diverse array of languages. It not only elucidates how languages diverge in their approaches to describing these two essential categories of reality but also showcases the diverse methodologies employed by modern linguistics to characterize them. Furthermore, the book extends the discussion of count and mass to abstract nouns, introducing a fresh perspective on the countability debate. With its groundbreaking approach to addressing the core issues surrounding the mass-count distinction, this book serves as a vital resource for scholars engaged in formal semantics and linguistic typology.

Weight: 648g
Dimension: 153 x 229 x 26 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781108932820