Abstract
In the light of current studies in language typology, this paper introduces one of the latest linguistic developments in China, i.e. the theory of Linguistic Inventory Typology. This theory holds that linguistic forms in a language tend to be language-particular, which constitute an inventory of their own, yet human cognition and common communication needs will lead them to unity. Some major insights from this theory, such as <i>mighty category</i>, <i>cross-categorical correspondence</i>, <i>inventory split</i>, <i>in-/out-of-inventory</i>, <i>two-way interaction</i> and <i>non-independence</i>, etc. are addressed in this paper with examples.
Highlights
IntroductionSince Greenberg’s pioneering work on work order in 1960s [11], language typology has made great progresses
Introduction to the Theory of LinguisticInventory Typology: Gaining Insights from the “Inventory”Wu Jianming*, Liu XueleiInstitute of Linguistics, Shanghai International Studies University, Shanghai, ChinaEmail address: To cite this article: Wu Jianming, Liu Xuelei
Language typology emphasizes on empiricism, where unity is sought through the observed diversity of languages
Summary
Since Greenberg’s pioneering work on work order in 1960s [11], language typology has made great progresses. There have been more and more insights into how languages should be described, analyzed or compared It has become a multi-dimensional discipline, involving not just the descriptive or comparative practices, and the studies of language contact, areality, genealogy, evolution and even correlations with social or natural factors. Language typology emphasizes on empiricism, where unity is sought through the observed diversity of languages. LIT holds that linguistic forms in a language tend to be language-particular, yet human cognition and common communication needs will lead them to unity. In the eye of LIT, complex form-meaning patterns are expected among languages in both diachronic evolution and synchronic distribution, yet its missions are not limited to the observation of linguistic varieties and to seek generalizations beyond the varieties. In terms of the subject matter, the readers may want to know at least the followings: i) What motivates LIT? ii) What are the claims of LIT? iii) Are there any supporting evidence to these claims? iv) How to tackle linguistic issues with LIT? These questions are to be addressed in this paper
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