Investigating the Dimensions of Spatial Language

Abstract

Spatial prepositions in the English language can be used to denote a vast array of configurations which greatly diverge from any typical meaning and there is much discussion regarding how their semantics are shaped and understood. Though there is general agreement that non-geometric aspects play a significant role in spatial preposition usage, there is a lack of available data providing insight into how these extra semantic aspects should be modelled. This paper is aimed at facilitating the acquisition of data that supports theoretical analysis and helps understand the extent to which different kinds of features play a role in the semantics of spatial prepositions. We first consider key features of spatial prepositions given in the literature. We then introduce a framework intended to facilitate the collection of rich data; including geometric, functional and conventional features. Finally, we describe a preliminary study, concluding with some insights into the difficulties of modelling spatial prepositions and gathering meaningful data about them

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