Definition & Meaning of "meaning-text theory"

What is "meaning-text theory"?

Meaning-text theory is a linguistic framework that focuses on the relationship between meaning and the textual representation of language. Developed by Igor Mel'čuk, this theory emphasizes how meanings are systematically transformed into linguistic forms, providing a structured approach to understanding how thoughts are expressed through language. Meaning-text theory distinguishes between the underlying semantic representation of ideas and their syntactic and morphological realizations in actual language use. This approach helps to analyze various aspects of language, including lexical choice, syntactic structure, and the coherence of texts, offering insights into the processes of language production and comprehension.