Author Description

In this book, Marcel Thelen combines the syntax-based structuring principles and the resulting lexicon according to TCM (Two-Cycle Model of Grammar) with the more contemporary cognitive interpretation of the lexicon and mental structures of Cognitive Grammar as developed by Langacker. He discusses issues such as nature/types and applies his insights to the ontological status of concepts, the nature of conceptual structure and polysemy, as well as to other disciplines such as Lexicography, Terminology and Translation. The modified TCM model that emerges is then compared with Cognitive Grammar on the points of centrality of syntax vs. iconicity, generation of structures vs. inventory of ready-made structures, and transformations vs. links. The conclusion is that these form the most difficult obstacles to remove for further reconciliation.