Persistence

Abstract

This chapter discusses how the Entrenchment-and-Conventionalization Model explains the persistence of linguistic structure. Persistence is regarded as an effect of frequent repetition of items with high similarity. An idealized scenario is developed which reflects how the different components can work together to keep certain parts of the linguistic system stable for a long time and comparatively uniform. It is stressed that persistence is not mere lack of change and variation, but particularly intense refreshment in usage, conventionalization, and entrenchment, generally driven by the repetition of highly conventionalized and entrenched utterance types. Forces such as economy, efficiency, solidarity, and power generally tend to support persistence.