Glossary:Prototype
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Prototype
Definition
Prototype ([ˈprəʊtə(ʊ)tɑɪp]): A member of a category or a concept that combines its most representative attributes and therefore more central or typical than others. Prototypes are cognitive reference points.
Comment:
We intuitively grade the members of a concept according to their typicality. Imagining birds as 'creatures that are covered with feathers, have two wings and two legs, and the majority of which can fly', some of these animals seem to be more birdlike than others.
Examples
CHAIR is a prototype of the concept FURNITURE. Other examples as desk, bed or bench are considered less typical.
ROBINS and SPARROWS are prototypes of the concept BIRDS. Penguins or ostriches are more peripheral examples.
References and links
- Bieswanger, Markus & Becker, Annette (2010): Introduction to English Linguistics. 3rd edition. Tübingen: Francke, p. 139-140.
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prototype_theory
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prototype
- http://en.wiktionary.org/wiki/Appendix:Glossary_of_semantics#H
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