An Introduction to Cognitive Linguistics

Part of "Learning About Language" series, this edition provides an overview of Cognitive Linguistics. It explains the concepts of categorization, of prototype and gestalt perception, of basic level and conceptual hierarchies, of figure and ground, and of metaphor and metonymy. It also brings together issues such as iconicity and lexical change.

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Cognitive linguists share the belief that language is based in our experience of the world. Although scientific in its claims, cognitive linguistics appeals to the intuitive feeling that our ability to use language is closely related to what goes on in our minds when we look at the things and situations around us and form mental images of them.

This book provides a basic and intelligible introduction to all the major issues in the field, including impor­tant recent developments such as conceptual blending.