Functions of Language

Scope & Guideline

Charting New Territories in Language and Communication

Introduction

Delve into the academic richness of Functions of Language with our guidelines, detailing its aims and scope. Our resource identifies emerging and trending topics paving the way for new academic progress. We also provide insights into declining or waning topics, helping you stay informed about changing research landscapes. Evaluate highly cited topics and recent publications within these guidelines to align your work with influential scholarly trends.
LanguageEnglish
ISSN0929-998x
PublisherJOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING CO
Support Open AccessNo
CountryNetherlands
TypeJournal
Convergefrom 1994 to 2024
AbbreviationFUNCT LANG / Funct. Lang.
Frequency3 issues/year
Time To First Decision-
Time To Acceptance-
Acceptance Rate-
Home Page-
AddressPO BOX 36224, 1020 ME AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS

Aims and Scopes

The journal 'Functions of Language' focuses on the intricate relationship between language structure and its functional uses in various contexts. It emphasizes the application of systemic functional linguistics and related frameworks to explore how language operates in communication, interaction, and cognition. The journal aims to address both theoretical and practical aspects of language functioning across different languages and modalities.
  1. Systemic Functional Linguistics (SFL):
    The journal extensively covers research related to systemic functional linguistics, analyzing how language structures serve specific communicative functions in varied contexts.
  2. Cross-linguistic and Multilingual Studies:
    It explores linguistic phenomena across different languages, highlighting comparative studies that reveal universal patterns and language-specific features.
  3. Pragmatics and Discourse Analysis:
    The journal emphasizes pragmatic aspects of language, examining how contextual factors shape meaning and interaction in discourse.
  4. Multimodal Communication:
    Research on multimodal aspects of communication, integrating visual, auditory, and textual modes, is a key focus, reflecting the complexity of real-life communication.
  5. Cognitive Approaches to Language:
    The journal incorporates cognitive perspectives, investigating how language relates to thought processes and embodied cognition.
  6. Language Acquisition and Development:
    Studies on language acquisition, particularly in multilingual contexts and among young learners, are frequently published, showcasing developmental aspects of language use.
  7. Historical and Diachronic Linguistics:
    It includes research that examines historical changes in language use and structure, providing insights into the evolution of linguistic forms and functions.
The journal 'Functions of Language' has seen a rise in several emerging themes that reflect contemporary issues in language studies. These trends indicate a growing interest in interdisciplinary approaches and innovative methodologies.
  1. Evidentiality and Modalities:
    Recent publications show a significant increase in studies focusing on evidentiality and the function of modal expressions, highlighting their role in constructing meaning and conveying speaker attitudes.
  2. Multimodal Pragmatics:
    There is a growing emphasis on multimodal pragmatics, exploring how different modes of communication (e.g., visual, auditory) interact to shape discourse and understanding.
  3. Cognitive Linguistics:
    Research integrating cognitive theories with linguistic analysis is on the rise, reflecting an interest in how language shapes and is shaped by cognitive processes.
  4. Discourse Markers and Their Functions:
    A notable trend is the exploration of discourse markers, their functions, and their role in structuring conversation and text, revealing insights into conversational dynamics.
  5. Contextualization in Language Use:
    Emerging studies focus on the role of context in language use, particularly in computer-mediated communication, demonstrating the relevance of situational factors in linguistic analysis.
  6. Language and Social Semiotics:
    There is an increasing interest in the intersection of language and social semiotics, examining how linguistic choices reflect and construct social meanings and ideologies.

Declining or Waning

While 'Functions of Language' has maintained a robust focus on certain themes, some areas of interest appear to be declining in prominence. This may reflect shifts in research priorities or the maturation of specific fields within language studies.
  1. Traditional Syntax:
    Research focusing on traditional syntactic structures and rules has become less frequent, as the journal increasingly favors functional and pragmatic analyses over purely syntactic ones.
  2. Static Models of Language:
    There is a noticeable decrease in the publication of studies employing static models of language that do not account for the dynamic and contextual nature of language use.
  3. Isolated Language Features:
    Papers that analyze isolated features of language without situating them in broader communicative or functional contexts are becoming less common, as the journal shifts towards integrative approaches.
  4. Descriptive Linguistics without Functional Analysis:
    There appears to be a waning interest in purely descriptive linguistic studies that do not engage with functional or pragmatic implications, reflecting a shift towards more applied research.

Similar Journals

Russian Journal of Linguistics

Pioneering Insights in the Study of Language
Publisher: PEOPLES FRIENDSHIP UNIV RUSSIAISSN: 2687-0088Frequency: 4 issues/year

Welcome to the Russian Journal of Linguistics, a prestigious journal published by Peoples Friendship University of Russia that has made significant strides in the realm of linguistic studies since its inception. With an Open Access policy established in 2019, this journal provides unparalleled opportunities for researchers, professionals, and students to share and disseminate groundbreaking linguistic research. The journal is currently ranked in the Q1 category for Linguistics and Language and boasts impressive Scopus rankings, placing 129th out of 1088 in the Arts and Humanities, and 148th out of 1167 in the Social Sciences. Focusing on a diverse range of linguistics topics, the journal aims to facilitate cross-disciplinary dialogue and foster advancements in the study of language. Located in Moscow, Russia, it champions the vibrant linguistic community by consistently publishing high-quality research that contributes to the global understanding of language dynamics. We invite you to explore the wealth of knowledge and insight the Russian Journal of Linguistics has to offer.

Estudios de Linguistica-Universidad de Alicante-ELUA

Elevating Linguistics: Where Research Meets Accessibility
Publisher: UNIV ALICANTEISSN: 0212-7636Frequency: 1 issue/year

Estudios de Linguistica-Universidad de Alicante-ELUA is a distinguished academic journal dedicated to advancing the field of linguistics, published by Universidad de Alicante. With an Open Access model adopted since 2020, ELUA facilitates greater accessibility to pioneering research for scholars and enthusiasts alike. The journal's ISSN is 0212-7636 and its E-ISSN is 2171-6692, ensuring it is indexed and easily discoverable in academic databases. Though the journal's H-Index is currently not specified, its commitment to disseminating high-quality linguistics research positions it as a valuable resource for researchers, professionals, and students. The journal aims to foster scholarly dialogue and innovation in various linguistic domains, making it an essential platform for sharing insights and findings that shape contemporary linguistic studies. Based in Alicante, Spain, ELUA is poised to contribute significantly to the global linguistics landscape.

WORD-JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL LINGUISTIC ASSOCIATION

Championing high-quality research to inspire linguistic innovation.
Publisher: ROUTLEDGE JOURNALS, TAYLOR & FRANCIS LTDISSN: 0043-7956Frequency: 4 issues/year

WORD-JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL LINGUISTIC ASSOCIATION is a leading peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing the field of linguistics and language studies. Published by Routledge Journals, Taylor & Francis Ltd, this esteemed journal has earned a reputation for its rigorous scholarship, reflected in its 2023 Q2 ranking in Linguistics and Language and its solid performance in Scopus Ranks. Encompassing a wide range of topics—from theoretical frameworks to empirical research—WORD serves as an essential resource for linguistics researchers, educators, and students alike. While currently not operating under an open access model, the journal is committed to providing high-quality, impactful research articles that contribute significantly to the linguistic community. With its convergence periods from 1998 to 2009 and 2015 to 2024, WORD continuously fosters the discourse of language studies, ensuring that critical insights and discussions are accessible for ongoing academic exploration.

LANGUAGE SCIENCES

Transforming Understanding Through Language Sciences
Publisher: ELSEVIER SCI LTDISSN: 0388-0001Frequency: 6 issues/year

LANGUAGE SCIENCES, published by Elsevier Science Ltd, stands as a prominent journal in the field of linguistics and language studies. With an impressive impact factor that solidifies its reputation, it holds a Q1 ranking in both the linguistics and language categories for 2023, reflecting its excellence and relevance in cutting-edge research. Since its inception in 1979, this journal has evolved to encompass a wide range of interdisciplinary studies, providing a platform for innovative research that addresses the complexities of language use, acquisition, cognition, and social interactions. The journal is hosted in the United Kingdom and features rigorous peer-reviewed articles that contribute significantly to both the academic community and practical applications in language-related fields. With access options tailored for a diverse range of readers and contributors, LANGUAGE SCIENCES invites scholars, students, and professionals to engage with its comprehensive body of work and contribute to the ongoing discourse in linguistics.

Contrastive Pragmatics

Exploring the nuances of language and culture.
Publisher: BRILLISSN: 2666-0385Frequency:

Contrastive Pragmatics, published by BRILL, is a premier open-access journal dedicated to advancing the field of linguistics through a unique focus on the pragmatic aspects of language comparison and contrast. Since its inception in 2020, this journal has rapidly established itself as a vital resource for scholars interested in the intricate interplay between language use, culture, and communication, reflecting the increasing importance of pragmatics in understanding cross-linguistic phenomena. With its Q2 ranking in Linguistics and Language as of 2023, and its commendable positions within Scopus ranks, Contrastive Pragmatics offers a platform for innovative research that not only highlights theoretical developments but also invites empirical investigations across languages and cultures. The journal's commitment to open access ensures that cutting-edge research is freely available, fostering collaboration and knowledge sharing among researchers, professionals, and students alike. For those looking to stay at the forefront of linguistic research, Contrastive Pragmatics is an essential avenue for exploration.

ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GERMANISTISCHE LINGUISTIK

Connecting Theory and Practice in Linguistics
Publisher: WALTER DE GRUYTER GMBHISSN: 0301-3294Frequency: 3 issues/year

ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GERMANISTISCHE LINGUISTIK, published by WALTER DE GRUYTER GMBH, stands as a pivotal resource in the field of linguistics since its inception in 1973. With its ISSN 0301-3294 and E-ISSN 1613-0626, this esteemed journal serves as an essential platform for researchers and academics focused on the nuances of the German language and its linguistic frameworks. Catering to a diverse audience, the journal features high-impact articles and contributions consistent with rigorous academic standards, as evident from its Q1 categorization in Linguistics and Language and its notable rankings in both the Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences domains. The journal's commitment to advancing knowledge in linguistics fosters a scholarly environment conducive to both emerging and established linguists. While not available through open access, ZEITSCHRIFT FUR GERMANISTISCHE LINGUISTIK remains influential, drawing readers keen on exploring developmental and educational paradigms alongside linguistic theories. With a convergence of research that spans until 2024, it represents a comprehensive body of work integral to the evolving landscape of linguistic studies in Germany and beyond.

Studii de Lingvistica

Championing open access to linguistic knowledge.
Publisher: EDITURA UNIV ORADEAISSN: 2248-2547Frequency: 1 issue/year

Studii de Lingvistica is a premier open-access journal committed to advancing the field of linguistics and language studies since its inception in 2011. Published by EDITURA UNIV ORADEA in Romania, this scholarly platform aims to disseminate high-quality research that encompasses various aspects of linguistics, encouraging contributions from researchers and professionals worldwide. With an impact factor that reflects its relevance, the journal holds a prestigious position in the Q2 category of Linguistics and Language for 2023. Despite its relatively nascent H-index, Studii de Lingvistica has carved a niche for itself, ranking 1017th and 1094th in Scopus across Arts and Humanities and Social Sciences, respectively. Researchers, scholars, and students alike will find valuable insights and pioneering studies within its pages, making it a vital resource for those engaged in the nuanced exploration of language and its cognitive dimensions. Located at UNIVERSITATII ST NO 1, PAVILION C, ORADEA, BIHOR, ROMANIA, this journal continues to foster academic dialogue and innovation within the linguistics community.

Review of Cognitive Linguistics

Bridging Linguistics and Psychology for a Deeper Understanding
Publisher: JOHN BENJAMINS PUBLISHING COISSN: 1877-9751Frequency: 2 issues/year

The Review of Cognitive Linguistics, published by John Benjamins Publishing Co, is a premier academic journal dedicated to the exploration of cognitive approaches to linguistics. With an ISSN of 1877-9751 and E-ISSN 1877-976X, this journal provides a critical platform for researchers and professionals to disseminate their findings in the rapidly evolving fields of linguistics and language, alongside developmental and educational psychology. Hailing from the Netherlands, the journal boasts impressive standing within the academic community, as indicated by its 2023 Q1 ranking in Linguistics and Language and Q3 in Developmental and Educational Psychology. Additionally, its Scopus rankings reflect a strong position within the arts and humanities and social sciences categories. While currently operating under a traditional access model, this journal actively contributes to the overarching discourse within cognitive linguistics, and is a vital resource for those aiming to deepen their understanding of the intricate link between language and cognition. Researchers, educators, and students are encouraged to engage with the rich body of articles spanning its convergence years from 2010 to 2024, making it an essential read for those at the forefront of these interdisciplinary studies.

Lingue e Linguaggio

Connecting Scholars in the Realm of Language and Linguistics
Publisher: SOC ED IL MULINOISSN: 1720-9331Frequency: 2 issues/year

Lingue e Linguaggio, published by SOC ED IL MULINO, is a distinguished academic journal in the field of Linguistics and Language, hailing from Bologna, Italy. With an esteemed Q2 ranking in its category as of 2023, this journal is recognized for its contributions to both the arts and humanities as well as social sciences, achieving notable positions within Scopus rankings. It serves as a vital platform for researchers, practitioners, and students interested in exploring various linguistic phenomena, language dynamics, and theoretical frameworks. Although it operates under a traditional subscription model rather than open access, its comprehensive array of studies and publications provides significant insights and fosters academic discourse. With a publication period extending from 2002 to 2024, Lingue e Linguaggio continues to be a key resource for advancing the understanding of language in contemporary contexts.

RLA-Revista de Linguistica Teorica y Aplicada

Empowering researchers with cutting-edge linguistic scholarship.
Publisher: UNIV CONCEPCION, FAC HUMANIDADES ARTEISSN: 0718-4883Frequency: 2 issues/year

RLA-Revista de Linguística Teórica y Aplicada, published by Universidad de Concepción, Facultad de Humanidades y Arte, stands as a vital resource in the field of linguistics, delivering cutting-edge research and scholarly articles that contribute to both theoretical and applied linguistics. With its ISSN 0718-4883, this journal aims to foster robust discussions and innovations in linguistic theory, language acquisition, sociolinguistics, and applied linguistics methodologies. Although the journal currently does not provide open access options, it endeavors to reach a diverse audience, including researchers, professionals, and students, who are keen to explore the rich tapestry of language studies. By offering insights from both local and global perspectives, RLA does not only advance linguistic discourse but also encourages interdisciplinary collaboration, thereby solidifying its role as a pivotal publication in the linguistic academic community.