Principles of Linguistic Semantics

By Oswald Ducrot

A Comprehensive Guide to the Study of Meaning in Language

In his seminal work, "Principles of Linguistic Semantics," Oswald Ducrot provides a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the field of linguistic semantics. This book offers a rigorous and systematic approach to understanding the ways in which language conveys meaning, making it an essential resource for linguists, philosophers, and anyone interested in the study of language.

Key Features:

• In-depth Analysis: Ducrot delves deeply into the complexities of linguistic semantics, examining topics such as reference, predication, quantification, and modality.

• Theoretical Framework: The book presents a coherent theoretical framework for understanding semantic phenomena, drawing on insights from formal semantics, pragmatics, and philosophy of language.

• Clear Explanations: Ducrot's writing style is clear and accessible, making complex concepts understandable even to those without a background in linguistics.

• Wide-ranging Examples: The book is replete with examples from a variety of languages, illustrating the universality of semantic principles across linguistic boundaries.

Part I: Foundations of Linguistic Semantics

In the first part of the book, Ducrot lays the groundwork for understanding linguistic semantics. He begins by discussing the nature of meaning and the different ways in which it can be expressed in language. He then introduces the concept of the semantic field, which provides a framework for organizing and analyzing semantic relationships between words.

Part II: Semantic Structures

The second part of the book focuses on the structure of semantic representations. Ducrot examines the ways in which words and phrases combine to form meaningful sentences, and he explores the role of context in shaping semantic interpretation. He also discusses the relationship between semantics and syntax, showing how the two levels of linguistic analysis are interconnected.

Part III: Semantic Analysis

In the third part of the book, Ducrot turns to the analysis of specific semantic phenomena. He examines the semantics of tense, aspect, modality, and negation, and he explores the ways in which these elements contribute to the overall meaning of utterances. He also discusses the role of presupposition and implication in semantic analysis.

Conclusion

"Principles of Linguistic Semantics" is a tour de force in the field of linguistic semantics. Ducrot's comprehensive and insightful analysis of meaning in language makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of human communication. With its clear explanations, wide-ranging examples, and rigorous theoretical framework, this book is an invaluable resource for linguists, philosophers, and anyone else seeking to deepen their understanding of language.