RHETOR 103B Chapter 4: R103B Reading 2.2.2017
Document Summary
Aim of general synchronic linguistics is to set up the fundamental principles of any idiosyncronic system, the constituents of any language state. To synchrony belongs everything called general grammar . Study of static linguistics more difficult than study of historical linguistics. Linguistics that penetrates values and conexisting relations presents greater difficulties. Language state is not a point, but a span of time during which the sum of the modifications that have supervened is minimal. Absolute state defined by absence of changes; since language changes somewhat in spite of everything, studying a language state means disregarding change of little importance. Linguistic entity exists only through the associating of the signifier with the signified. Linguistic entity is not accurately defined until it is delimited. Sum: language does not offer itself as a set of pre-delimited signs that need only be studied according to their meaning and arrangement - confused mass and only attentiveness and familiarization reveals its particular elements.
