Nacini, Gisella English Grammar II Martins, Sofa Herrn, Joana

Relation between signs: the paradigmatic and syntagmatic axes

There are two kinds of relations between linguistic signs, called axes: The syntagmatic axis, which captures the relations of sequence or chain relations between signs. These relations are the ones by which signs can go together in sequences or structures, thus the relationship between one sign and the signs that can go before and after it. These relations give structures: a sequence of ordered elements in linear arrangement. The paradigmatic axis, which captures the relations of opposition or choice between signs, is the one by which signs stand in opposition to other signs. These relations give paradigms: a set of oppositions or choices in a particular context. The study of language involves establishing the paradigmatic and syntagmatic relations which give meanings to the linguistic signs.