Left Dislocation

Definition

Left dislocation is a grammatical construction where a phrase or clause is shifted to the front of a sentence for emphasis, often accompanied by a pronoun or a form of 'it' to refer back to the original subject. This structure helps to highlight new information by repositioning elements in a way that foregrounds them, creating a clear distinction between what is already known and what is being introduced.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Left dislocation can enhance clarity by explicitly marking new information, making it easier for listeners to identify key points.
2. This structure often involves using a noun phrase followed by a pronoun or 'it', which creates a contrast between the given and new information.
3. Left dislocation is commonly found in spoken language and informal writing, where emphasis and engagement with the audience are more important.
4. While left dislocation primarily focuses on elements within a sentence, it can influence the overall coherence and flow of larger texts.
5. Understanding left dislocation helps speakers and writers effectively manage information flow, guiding the audience's focus on what matters most.

Review Questions

• How does left dislocation help differentiate between given and new information in communication?
  • Left dislocation plays a crucial role in communication by allowing speakers to clearly distinguish between what is already known (given information) and what is being introduced (new information). By moving the new element to the front of the sentence, followed by a pronoun or 'it', speakers signal to listeners that this new detail requires attention. This structure makes it easier for audiences to follow along and grasp the main ideas being presented.
• Analyze how left dislocation can affect the tone and style of written versus spoken language.
  • In spoken language, left dislocation often creates a more conversational tone, engaging listeners by emphasizing important points and making discussions feel dynamic. In written language, however, its use can vary; while it may lend clarity and emphasis in informal contexts, overuse might disrupt the flow and lead to awkwardness in formal writing. The balance between clarity and style demonstrates how context influences the effectiveness of left dislocation.
• Evaluate the implications of using left dislocation in persuasive writing. How can it enhance or detract from an argument?
  • Using left dislocation in persuasive writing can significantly enhance an argument by foregrounding key points, thus capturing the reader's attention right away. By emphasizing new information at the beginning of sentences, writers can strategically guide readers toward important conclusions. However, if used excessively or improperly, it can detract from the argument's clarity and make it harder for readers to follow the overall narrative. Therefore, careful consideration of when and how to implement this structure is crucial for effective persuasion.

Related terms

Topicalization:

A syntactic structure that moves an element to the beginning of a sentence, making it the topic of discussion, similar to left dislocation but without necessarily including a pronoun.

Given Information: Information that is already known or assumed in the context of a conversation, often presented without needing additional emphasis.

New Information: Details or facts that are introduced for the first time in a discourse, which require special attention or emphasis to be understood.