Generative Grammar
Generative grammar is a branch of theoretical linguistics that works to provide a set of rules that can accurately predict which combinations of words are able to make grammatically correct sentences.
The study of generative grammar began in the 1950s as the result of work performed by Noam Chomsky, who took a naturalistic approach to the study of language.
A key component of his work was the theory that the properties of generative grammar come from a universal grammar that is common among all spoken and written language forms.
The primary components studied by experts in generative grammar include syntax (structure of sentences), semantics (linguistic meaning), phonology (sound patterns of language), and morphology (structure and meaning of words).
Linguists working in this field rely on "derivation trees". These are diagrams that help view a sentence as a tree with connected subordinate and superordinate branches as opposed to a simple string of words.
Generative grammar theories are based upon the belief that humans have an innate language faculty that allows children to learn to speak their native language in little or no time with a very minimal amount of conscious effort.
While generative grammar may first appear to have very limited practical applications outside language studies, it is interesting to note that the ideas behind this particular branch of theoretical linguistics have also been used to advance the study of music. Schenkerian analysis helps define tonality in music by apply the principles of generative grammar. Notable composer Fred Lerdahl has also used generative grammar to advance his musical studies.
