Corpus Linguistics and Cognitive Linguistics: A Convergence of Basic Assumptions

摘要

This paper explores the potential of synthesis between cognitive linguistics and corpus linguistics, and shows that the cognitive linguistic approach to the study of language can dovetail nicely with research in corpus linguistics. Both fields share basic assumptions: for instance, they both assign units larger than the word (multi-word expressions) a much more prominent role in their analysis than many other frameworks; they do not commit themselves to a strict dichotomy between lexicon and grammar; they both adhere to a usage-based approach to language. By comparing the theoretical assumptions of the usage-based approach with an analysis of patterns of use that is grounded in current corpus-linguistic practices of data interpretation, I suggest that it is possible to reach a more unified and insightful explanation of language use and a more unified and insightful approach to linguistic theory; one in which 'everything fits, and everything fits together' (Langacker 1987: 32).