Corpora: Pragmatics and Discourse: Papers from the 29th International Conference on English Language Research on Computerized Corpora (ICAME 29). Ascona, ... 14-18 May 2008. (Language & Computers)

Introduction

Welcome to an exploration of the multifaceted and ever-evolving domain of corpus linguistics, pragmatics, and discourse analysis. The book "Corpora: Pragmatics and Discourse: Papers from the 29th International Conference on English Language Research on Computerized Corpora (ICAME 29)" serves as a treasure trove of insights and findings from the 29th gathering in this esteemed conference series, held in Ascona, from May 14 to 18, 2008.

In a world where digital communication is burgeoning, the significance of language research using computerized corpora has never been more prominent. This collection of papers not only elucidates the cutting-edge methodologies and innovative perspectives on corpus research but also underscores its implications in understanding the dynamics of language use in society. The conference brought together distinguished scholars, specialists, and motivated researchers, creating a vibrant intellectual arena for the dissemination of knowledge and collaborative investigation.

Detailed Summary of the Book

The book revolves around the crucial theme of examining linguistic structures through the lens of pragmatics and discourse analysis, with a strong emphasis on empirical evidence drawn from corpora.

The compilation begins with theoretical underpinnings that provide readers with a robust framework for understanding the role of corpora in contemporary linguistic research. It progresses to diverse empirical studies featuring a wealth of corpora-derived evidence, showcasing the richness and versatility of linguistic data.

Key topics addressed include cross-linguistic and cross-cultural discourse patterns, linguistic variation in different contexts, and emerging trends in language use. Each paper delves into specific research questions, employing advanced computational techniques, thereby enriching the reader’s comprehension of how language is both shaped by and shapes human interaction.

Key Takeaways

• Corpus linguistics provides a vast resource for analyzing pragmatic and discourse elements, yielding profound insights into language use.
• The book underscores the intersection of linguistic theory and computational techniques, highlighting their synergistic potential in understanding human communication.
• Multi-modal and multi-layered approaches are crucial in decoding complex linguistic phenomena.
• Contextual and cross-disciplinary methods foster a deeper understanding of language variety and change.

Famous Quotes from the Book

"Corpus linguistics stands at the forefront of revolutionizing our approach to understanding language patterns, intricacies, and evolutions."

"The dialogue between empirical data and theoretical frameworks in language research is both challenging and transformative, leading us to new horizons."

Why This Book Matters

This book is indispensable for scholars, practitioners, and students in the fields of linguistics, discourse studies, and communication. Its significance lies not only in its methodological innovations but also in its ability to contextualize language research in the digital age.

By shedding light on diverse linguistic paradigms through empirical studies, the book offers a comprehensive perspective on the importance of corpora in shaping and understanding human communication. It emphasizes the critical role of entries in bridging linguistic analysis and real-world discourse, which is essential for advancing research and teaching in the discipline.

Moreover, the collection fosters a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of human language, providing motivations for further exploration and discovery. As language continues to evolve, this book serves as both a beacon and a catalyst for future research, promoting innovative dialogues in the linguistic community.