Chapter 2. Reference tracking
Reference tracking is about the cues according to which addressees keep track of the identity of referents in discourse. A referent is usually introduced to the conversation with an indefinite form [Pragmatics - 1.3.]. After the introduction, it is usually inappropriate to use long chunks of words (such as noun phrases) for a referent that is mentioned again. Instead, a shorter underspecified form is used such as pronouns [Lexicon - 3.7.]; verbal agreement [Morphology - 3.1.]; classifiers [Morphology - 5]; and buoys [Pragmatics - 2.2.3.]. The meaning of these forms is understood by referring back to the original introduction (antecedent) of the referent. The referent is expressed via different linguistic strategies depending on its place in the discourse and common ground between the interlocutors [Pragmatics - 5.3]. Thus, this chapter explains reference tracking strategies that employ pronouns, agreement, classifiers, and buoys.
This project has received funding from the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation programme under grant Agreement No 693349.