Transformational grammar

Definition

Transformational grammar is a theory of syntax that focuses on the relationships between different sentence structures and the transformations that can generate them. This framework, developed by Noam Chomsky, emphasizes the idea that sentences have an underlying structure that can be altered through various grammatical rules to form different expressions. It connects deeply with the concept of generative grammar, which aims to describe the inherent rules and patterns in human language.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Transformational grammar was introduced by Noam Chomsky in his 1957 book 'Syntactic Structures', revolutionizing the field of linguistics.
2. The theory posits that every sentence has a deep structure which can be transformed into various surface structures using specific grammatical rules.
3. Transformations in transformational grammar can include processes like moving elements around, deleting parts of sentences, or substituting words.
4. This approach allows linguists to analyze not only the structure of sentences but also how changes in structure can affect meaning.
5. Transformational grammar has influenced not only linguistic theory but also fields like psychology and cognitive science by highlighting how humans understand and produce language.

Review Questions

• How does transformational grammar illustrate the relationship between deep structure and surface structure in sentence formation?
  • Transformational grammar illustrates this relationship by showing that every sentence begins with an abstract deep structure that represents its core meaning. This deep structure undergoes various transformations to create different surface structures, which are the actual sentences we hear or read. For example, a declarative sentence can be transformed into a question or a passive voice construction while maintaining its underlying meaning.
• Discuss how transformational grammar has changed our understanding of syntactic rules and their application in language.
  • Transformational grammar has shifted our understanding by suggesting that there are universal principles underlying all languages, which govern how sentences can be transformed. It highlights that these syntactic rules are not arbitrary but are part of an innate linguistic capability shared by all humans. This perspective has led to a deeper inquiry into the cognitive processes involved in language use and acquisition.
• Evaluate the impact of transformational grammar on modern linguistics and its relevance to other disciplines such as psychology and artificial intelligence.
  • The impact of transformational grammar on modern linguistics is profound, as it established a framework for understanding syntax that continues to influence research today. Its relevance extends beyond linguistics into psychology, where it helps explain cognitive processes related to language comprehension and production. In artificial intelligence, concepts from transformational grammar are utilized to develop algorithms for natural language processing, enhancing machines' ability to understand and generate human language effectively.

Related terms

Generative Grammar: A set of rules that aims to describe the implicit knowledge that speakers have about their language, allowing for the creation of an infinite number of sentences.

Deep Structure: The underlying, abstract representation of a sentence's meaning and grammatical relationships before any transformations are applied.

Surface Structure: The final form of a sentence after transformations have been applied, representing how the sentence is expressed in spoken or written language.