Abstract
Corpus linguistics is a method that uses computer software to systematically analyse large digital text collections, known as “corpora”, to study language patterns. With the vast amounts of English text now available online, linguists have an unprecedented resource for building these corpora. Modern technology allows for quick processing and analysis of these massive text databases. This has changed the study of the English language by providing clear, evidence-based insights into how language is used, rather than relying on guesses or assumptions. Corpus linguistics makes it easier and faster to analyse language on a wide scale, moving away from the slow and labour-intensive traditional methods. This chapter introduces the main issues and techniques of corpus linguistics, its historical development, and its influence on the study of language, particularly English.
Original language | English |
---|---|
Title of host publication | The Routledge Companion to English Studies, 2nd ed. |
Editors | Constant Leung, Jo Lewkowicz |
Place of Publication | UK |
Publisher | Routledge |
Chapter | 2 |
Pages | 16-30 |
Number of pages | 15 |
Edition | 2nd |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 31 Jul 2024 |