Lexical Structures of Portuguese: A Generative Approach

Introduction

In her book "Lexical Structures of Portuguese: A Generative Approach," Margarida Basílio provides a comprehensive and insightful analysis of the lexical structures of Portuguese. Drawing on cutting-edge research in generative grammar, Basílio offers a fresh perspective on the organization and representation of words in the Portuguese language.

Key Features

One of the key features of this book is its thorough examination of the internal structure of words, including roots, affixes, and compounds. Basílio delves into the intricate mechanisms that govern the formation of words and explores the various ways in which morphemes combine to create new lexical items.

Another highlight of the book is its exploration of the relationship between syntax and the lexicon. Basílio demonstrates how syntactic processes, such as movement and agreement, interact with lexical structures to produce well-formed sentences. This integrated approach provides a deeper understanding of the interplay between these two fundamental aspects of language.

Theoretical Framework

Basílio's analysis is firmly grounded in the principles of generative grammar, a theoretical framework that views language as a system of rules and representations. This approach allows for a rigorous and systematic investigation of the lexical structures of Portuguese, enabling Basílio to uncover patterns and regularities that might otherwise go unnoticed.

Empirical Data

Throughout the book, Basílio draws on a wealth of empirical data to support her arguments and illustrate the various phenomena she discusses. These data come from a variety of sources, including corpora, dictionaries, and experimental studies. This empirical foundation lends credibility to Basílio's analysis and ensures that her conclusions are firmly grounded in real-world language use.

Pedagogical Value

"Lexical Structures of Portuguese: A Generative Approach" is not only a valuable resource for scholars and researchers in the field of linguistics, but it also has significant pedagogical value. The book is clearly written and accessible, making it an ideal textbook for advanced undergraduate and graduate courses in Portuguese linguistics. Basílio's clear explanations and engaging examples help to demystify complex linguistic concepts and make them understandable to students of all levels.

Conclusion

In conclusion, "Lexical Structures of Portuguese: A Generative Approach" is a must-read for anyone interested in the study of Portuguese linguistics. Basílio's comprehensive analysis, rigorous theoretical framework, and wealth of empirical data make this book an invaluable resource for scholars, researchers, and students alike. Its clear and accessible writing style also makes it an excellent choice for use in the classroom. If you are passionate about Portuguese language and linguistics, this book is a must-have addition to your library.