An Introduction to Syntax: Fundamentals of Syntactic Analysis

by Edith A. Moravcsik

Overview

This comprehensive introduction to syntax explains the basic concepts of syntax, and how the structures which are in place for describing the world can also be applied to a description of language structure. Edith Moravcsik presents a detailed introduction to syntactic description, including linear order, selection, categories, meaning, sound form, variation and change. The final selection provides a summary which looks at how we can explain syntax. The book includes student-friendly features, such as chapter summaries, suggestions for further reading, exercises, and a glossary of terms.
This comprehensive introduction to syntax explains the basic concepts of syntax, and how the structures which are in place for describing the world can also be applied to a description of language structure. Edith Moravcsik presents a detailed introduction to syntactic description, including linear order, selection, categories, meaning, sound form, variation and change. The final selection provides a summary which looks at how we can explain syntax. The book includes student-friendly features, such as chapter summaries, suggestions for further reading, exercises, and a glossary of terms.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780826489463
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	06/19/2006
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	288
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.21(h) x 0.60(d)

About the Author

Dr Edith A. Moravcsik is Professor of Foreign Language and Linguistics at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.

Table of Contents

Preface 1. What is Syntax? 2. Linear Order 3. Selection 4. Categories 5. Syntax, meaning and sound form 6. Variation and change 7. Explaining syntax Glossary

Editorial Reviews

This book, which contains a rich coverage of the various syntactic theories and how they accommodate conflicts, presents a substantial contribution to an understanding of the differences as well as the shared goals among these theories. In sum, An introduction to syntactic theory is highly recommended as a valuable resource for anyone learning or teaching syntax.--Sanford Lakoff

Unlike most syntax textbooks, this one approaches the technicalities via a broad consideration of explanation illustrated from everyday life. The discussion presents the view of a leading scholar in the field, whose enthusiasm, wisdom and open-mindedness show through on every page. It draws from a wide range of languages and culminates in a splendid chapter about the ultimate explanatory force for syntax: function.--Sanford Lakoff

From the Publisher