Question #61f2a

1 Answer
Feb 18, 2018

The functional theories of grammar are different approaches to the study of language and its elements to understand linguistic structures and processes.

Explanation:

With these theories, it is said that language is fundamentally a tool; therefore, it is reasonable to assume that its structures are understood the best with reference to the functions they carry out.

The grammatical functions include:

  • Semantic function- this describes the role of participants in actions expressed or state of affairs. (Ex: President, Treasurer)
  • Syntactic function- this defines different perspectives in a linguistic expression's presentation. (Ex: Subject, Predicate)
  • Pragmatic function-this defines the constituent's informational status, which is determined by the pragmatic context of verbal interaction.

Some grammatical frameworks that have a functional approach include:

  • Danish functional grammar, which focuses on pragmatics and discourse and uses Saussurean/Hjelmslevian structuralism

  • Role and Reference Grammar (RRG), which has a functional analytical framework with a semi-formal mode of description

  • Simon Dik's functional grammar, which has been developed into Functional Discourse Grammar and heavily inspired many other forms of functional theories.

  • Michael Halliday's systemic functional grammar, which states that the explanation of how language works needs "to be grounded in a functional analysis,..."

  • André Martinet's functional syntax

  • the Prague School's structuralist functionalism