Verbs as Central Elements in Role and Reference Grammar and Dependency Grammar and Valency Theories

Authors

  • L. Osafo-Adjei Cape Coast Technical University
  • U. S. Tetteh Cape Coast Technical University
  • B. N. M. Dadzie Cape Coast Technical University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26437/ajar.v9i1.529

Keywords:

Dependency grammar. illocutionary force. reference grammar. valency. verbal node

Abstract

Purpose: The study takes into consideration the role a verb plays in the English language, how it has been described by the traditional grammar approach, the deficiencies in their definitions, and a critical look at how verbs play the central roles in two grammatical theories: Role and Reference Grammar as well as Dependency Grammar and Valency.

Design/Methodology/Approach: The study used the review approach to analyse texts based on examples. It relies on a thorough examination of existing literature on the topic. Content analysis was adopted to analyse the study.

Findings: From the analysis used in the study, it was established that verbs were seen in both theories to be at the heart of meaning.

Research Limitation: The study discusses the research limitations of both theories, including issues related to cross-linguistic differences and the difficulty of accounting for idiosyncratic uses of verbs.

Practical Implication: The practical implications of these theories are explored, such as their usefulness in language teaching and the development of natural language processing systems.

Social Implication: The social implications of these theories are also considered, including the potential for these theories to contribute to a better understanding of language diversity and promote linguistic equality.

Originality/Value: The study contributes to a deeper understanding of these theoretical frameworks and their potential to enhance language research, teaching, and societal understanding.

Author Biographies

L. Osafo-Adjei, Cape Coast Technical University

He is an Assistant Lecturer at the Department  of Liberal & Communication Studies, Cape Coast Technical University, Cape Coast.

U. S. Tetteh, Cape Coast Technical University

He is a Senior Lecturer with the Department  of Liberal & Communication Studies, Cape Coast Technical University, Cape Coast, Ghana.

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Published

2023-05-01

How to Cite

Osafo-Adjei, L., Tetteh, U. S. ., & Dadzie, B. N. M. (2023). Verbs as Central Elements in Role and Reference Grammar and Dependency Grammar and Valency Theories. AFRICAN JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH, 9(1), 194–208. https://doi.org/10.26437/ajar.v9i1.529