Theoretical linguistics

Theoretical linguistics is a widespread, but not generally used to refer to a branch of general linguistics (→ General Linguistics # Theoretical subjects), which deals mainly with the development of abstract linguistic models. This includes essentially theoretical constructs of the grammar and the search for and the explanation of language universals, ie of properties which have all natural languages ​​together.

The main areas of theoretical linguistics are as follows:

• The syntax examines the rules for forming sets.
• The phonology is concerned with the combination and function of sounds.
• The morphology deals with the components of words and their relation to syntax.
• The semantics captures the meaning and importance of linguistic units.

Although the phonetics related as the study of the physical properties, the articulation and perception of speech sounds closely with the phonology and is often treated together with her, she is not considered part of theoretical linguistics in general.