Corpus-based Computational Linguistics - A Practical Investigation of the Procedures Involved in the Selection, Study and Exploitation of a Relevant Coprus

Abstract

This paper charts a corpus analysis research investigation that was conducted in response to a classroom question. The linguistic features under investigation are “used to” and “be used to”; two grammatical forms whose constructional similarity often causes problems for beginner-level students. This intentionally limited study outlines, by way of a step- by-step approach, the practical procedures involved in the assimilation and manipulation of computer-generated data. It is hoped that novice investigators may gain some valuable insight as to what even simplistic inquiries can bring for themselves as linguistic theorists, and to their learners embarking on a greater understanding of language meaning and usage.