Local Pragmatics

Citation

Hobbs Sr, J. R., & Martin, P. (1987). Local pragmatics. SRI INTERNATIONAL MENLO PARK CA ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE CENTER.

Abstract

The outline of a unified theory of local pragmatics phenomena is presented, including an approach to the problems of reference resolution, metonymy, and interpreting nominal compounds. The TACITUS computer system embodying this theory is also described. The theory and system are based on the use of a theorem prover to draw the appropriate inferences from a large knowledge base of commonsense and technical knowledge. Issues of control are discussed. Two important kinds of implicatures are defined, and it is shown how they can be used to determine what in a text is given and what is new.

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