English Linguistics

Our research in English linguistics centres on the structure of the English language and how we as language users understand and make use of English in different situations in speech and writing. The link between linguistic expressions and cognition is central, and meaning in language in human communication is in focus, irrespective of whether we study words, sentences or texts. An important part of our research concerns how words combine to form larger units of meaning such as clauses, sentences and texts, how these units are understood by language users and why we interpret word, sentences and texts in the way we do in different contexts.

Using both corpus techniques and experimental methods, we have three main research areas where we produce strong and competitive research, and in a couple of fields even internationally leading research. These research strengths are within cognitive linguistics, generative syntax, sociolinguistics and second language acquisition including teaching and learning. The Centre of Languages and Literature is a vibrant research environment with many research seminars and a state-of-the-art Humanities Lab.