Cognitive Functions of Enumeration in Economic Discourse

Abstract

Investigation of linguistic means representing knowledge within the framework of cognitive linguistics pertains its relevance. Our study of enumeration is carried on the material of economic discourse. The functions of enumeration are established. Semantically enumeration constitutes of homogeneous and heterogeneous enumerative series. Homogeneous enumerative series in economic discourse are represented by the economic spheres of human activity, while heterogeneous enumerative series are characterised by penetration of other spheres of human activity to economy. Structurally enumeration in economic discourse consists of linear and hierarchical constituents. Linear enumerations have two or more elements in their structure. Hierarchical enumerative series comprise linear enumerations subdivided into subordinate enumerative series. The degree of isolation of the elements of enumerative series can vary. Thus, the elements can be separated by means of punctuation, namely by commas within sentences and dots in paragraphs, as well as by paragraphs themselves. The main research methods are discourse analysis, descriptive and contextual analysis. In addition, techniques of syntactic-semantic analysis are used to clarify the peculiarities of enumeration in economic discourse. This study explores functions of enumeration as a means to structure and represent conceptual information in economic discourse. As a result cognitive functions of enumeration characterised by content-related and structuring features were established. Content-related functions of enumeration in economic discourse serve to explain, name, generalise, specify, contrast, conceptualise, reveal and describe ideas and notions, as well as, structuring functions are implemented by sequencing, systematisation, framing and categorisation of information.