Syntax: A Functional-Typological Introduction, Volume I

by Talmy Givón

This two-volume work on syntax views grammar as a non-arbitrary language-processing device, to be understood in terms of the various substantive parameters relevant to communicative function, cognitive processing, socio-culture and neuro-biology. Distortions in this complex yet highly iconic code are due to conflicting functional requirements, most commonly introduced into the code through the course of diachronic change. Cross-linguistic variation within each functional domain is highly constrained and yields a coherent typology of the most natural ways the same communicative functions can be performed.

Genres: Linguistics

464 pages, Paperback

First published December 31, 1984

Reviews

[Linda]

This book was required in one of my linguistics classes. It is very thorough and includes examples from many languages. I learned a lot from it. There were times that I wished it gave a few more examples so that I could be certain I understood. I used another book to help in those cases.