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In:Semantic-Pragmatic Change from Intersubjective to Textual Meanings
Edited by Giulio Scivoletto and Ryo Takamura
[Pragmatics & Beyond New Series 353] 2025
► pp. 1–16

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Introduction

Semantic-pragmatic change from intersubjective to textual meanings

Published online: 27 June 2025
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https://doi.org/10.1075/pbns.353.int
Abstract
This introduction presents this volume, explaining how it originated and what issues it intends to tackle. After setting its context and rationale, the theoretical background is discussed, i.e. the tendency of semantic-pragmatic change to be associated with cases of grammaticalization. The specific tendency from (inter)subjective meanings into textual ones is shown to be implied in the very foundations of the line of research inaugurated by Elizabeth Traugott. This volume explores this tendency, bringing together studies on a variety of constructions and in diverse languages, ultimately shedding light on general issues such as the notion of textual meanings and directionality of change.
Article outline
  • 1.Introduction
  • 2.Tendencies in semantic-pragmatic change
  • 3.The tendency from (inter)subjective to textual
  • 4.A two-way interpretation of textual function
  • 5.Different interpretations of intersubjectivity and intersubjectification
  • 6.Outlook of the chapters
  • 7.From intersubjective to textual meanings: Implications and takeaway
  • Acknowledgements
  • Note
  • References
References (41)
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