Overview

This is an introduction to Optimality Theory, whose central idea is that surface forms of language reflect resolutions of conflicts between competing constraints. A surface form is 'optimal' if it incurs the least serious violations of a set of constraints, taking into account their hierarchical ranking. Languages differ in the ranking of constraints; and any violations must be minimal. The book does not limit its empirical scope to phonological phenomena, but also contains chapters on the learnability of OT grammars; OT's implications for syntax; and other issues such as opacity. It also reviews in detail a selection of the considerable research output which OT has already produced. Exercises accompany chapters 1-7, and there are sections on further reading. Optimality Theory will be welcomed by any linguist with a basic knowledge of derivational Generative Phonology.

ISBN-13

9780521580199

ISBN-10

0521580196

Weight

1.85 Pounds

Dimensions

6.50 x 1.50 x 9.75 In

List Price

$193.00

Edition

1st Edition

Format

Hardcover

Language

English

Pages

468 pages

Publisher

Cambridge University Press

Published On

1999-06-28



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