Choice in Language

Book excerpt: The notion of Choice provides a constant underlying theme to work in Systemic Functional Linguistics, whether this is concerned with in-depth description of the system of lexicogrammatical options available within specific languages or with the analysis of the semiotic and/or social implications of the choices taken within specific texts. Yet to date little has been published exploring the applicability of choice across various contexts. This book addresses this gap in the literature by presenting a selection of writings from internationally renowned authors that develop the analytical perspective of choice across wide-ranging contexts and in some cases in languages other than English. The book demonstrates the value of Systemic Functional Linguistics as an applicable" linguistics, which is a core tool in broader fields such as pedagogy, literary studies and critical discourse analysis.