Introducing Meaning Studies
Denroche, C. 2022. Introducing Meaning Studies. WFLL Research Day. 01 Jun 2022
Denroche, C. 2022. Introducing Meaning Studies. WFLL Research Day. 01 Jun 2022
| Title | Introducing Meaning Studies |
|---|---|
| Authors | Denroche, C. |
| Abstract | This talk looks at semantics, the topic area within linguistics concerned with language and meaning, and finds it wanting. Semantics fails to embrace entire strands of significant research into language and meaning, such as phraseology (Sinclair 1991), functional grammar (Halliday 1985) and metaphor (Gibbs 2008), while over-emphasizing topics of less relevance, such as logic, truth and reference. It also lacks the overarching organization and internal structuring one would expect of a mature discipline. To resolve these issues, I propose a new, more inclusive field, Meaning Studies, which abandons unhelpful emphases and presents a multidisciplinary programme organized according to ‘dimensions of meaning’, ‘core ideas’ and ‘guiding principles’. The programme extends to translation and other contexts where languages co-exist, namely multilingualism, language learning and language contact. Meaning Studies will showcase the work of scholars across the ages, by offering a proper platform for their work, and provide an accessible repository of know-how on language and meaning for all those working inside and outside linguistics today. Gibbs, R. (ed.) 2008. The Cambridge handbook of metaphor and thought. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press. |
| Year | 2022 |
| Conference | WFLL Research Day |