Function Words

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  1. function word
    a word that is uninflected and serves a grammatical function but has little identifiable meaning
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  2. Wernicke
    German neurologist best known for his studies of aphasia
    Within the left temporal lobe (at least for most people) is Wernicke’s area.
  3. frontal lobe
    that part of the cerebral cortex in either hemisphere of the brain lying directly behind the forehead
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  4. Broca
    French anthropologist who studied the craniums and brains of different races of people; remembered for his discovery that articulate speech depends on an area of the brain now known as Broca's area (1824-1880)
    Broca’s area, on the
    other hand, is situated in the left frontal lobe.
  5. temporal lobe
    the part of the brain that processes sounds and stores memories
    Within the left temporal lobe (at least for most people) is Wernicke’s area.
  6. millisecond
    one thousandth (10^-3) of a second
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  7. auxiliary verb
    a verb that combines with another verb in a verb phrase to help form tense, mood, voice, or condition of the verb it combines with
    Function words include pronouns, prepositions, articles, conjunctions, and
    auxiliary verbs.
  8. lobe
    a rounded projection that is part of a larger structure
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  9. cerebral cortex
    the outermost layer of the cerebrum
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  10. frontal
    belonging to the front part
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  11. eye contact
    contact that occurs when two people look directly at each other
    These
    people often speak warmly and fluidly while maintaining eye contact with the
    target person.
  12. gloss over
    treat hurriedly or avoid dealing with properly
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  13. function
    what something is used for
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  14. subliminal
    below the threshold of conscious perception
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  15. deceptively
    in a misleading way
    This deceptively trivial percentage
    (less than 0.04%) of our vocabulary accounts for over half of the words we use
    in daily speech (Rochon, Saffran, Berndt, & Schwartz, 2000).
  16. priming
    the act of making something ready
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  17. cortex
    the tissue forming the outer layer of an organ or structure
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  18. disproportionately
    to a disproportionate degree
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  19. mammal
    a warm-blooded vertebrate having the skin covered with hair
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  20. preposition
    a word before a noun or pronoun connecting to another word
    Function words include pronouns, prepositions, articles, conjunctions, and
    auxiliary verbs.
  21. situate
    determine or indicate the place or limits of
    Broca’s area, on the
    other hand, is situated in the left frontal lobe.
  22. Weber
    German sociologist and pioneer of the analytic method in sociology (1864-1920)
    Despite the frequency
    of their use, they are the hardest to master when learning a new language
    (Weber-Fox & Neville, 2001).
  23. linguistic
    consisting of or related to language
    The ways people use function words reflects their linguistic style.
  24. predictable
    capable of being foretold
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  25. vocabulary
    a language user's knowledge of words
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  26. intact
    undamaged in any way
    Most social emotions, skills in reading others’ emotions and intentions, and the
    ability to connect with others are highly dependent on an intact frontal lobe.
  27. hypothetical
    a conjectural possibility or circumstance
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  28. speaker
    someone who expresses in language
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  29. functioning
    performing or able to perform its regular purpose
    People with functioning Broca’s area – but
    with damage to Wernicke’s area – exhibit a completely different social style.
  30. pronoun
    a function word that is used in place of a noun
    Function words include pronouns, prepositions, articles, conjunctions, and
    auxiliary verbs.
  31. verb
    a word denoting an action, occurrence, or state of existence
    Function words include pronouns, prepositions, articles, conjunctions, and
    auxiliary verbs.
  32. well over
    flow or run over (a limit or brim)
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  33. cerebral
    of or relating to the brain
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  34. gloss
    the property of being smooth and shiny
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  35. word
    a unit of language that native speakers can identify
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  36. temporal
    of or relating to or limited by time
    In general, the
    majority of language functions are housed in the temporal and frontal lobes.
  37. researcher
    a scientist devoted to systematic investigation
    In recent years, researchers have begun to emphasize the
    frontal lobe in guiding our social behaviors (e.g.,
  38. ice cream
    frozen dessert containing cream and sugar and flavoring
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  39. area
    the extent of a two-dimensional surface within a boundary
    Within the left temporal lobe (at least for most people) is Wernicke’s area.
  40. auxiliary
    furnishing added support
    Function words include pronouns, prepositions, articles, conjunctions, and
    auxiliary verbs.
  41. emphasize
    stress or single out as important
    In recent years, researchers have begun to emphasize the
    frontal lobe in guiding our social behaviors (e.g.,
  42. junk
    the remains of something that has been destroyed or broken up
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  43. words
    language that is spoken or written
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  44. generate
    bring into existence
    Wernicke’s area is critical for both understanding and generating most advanced
    speech – including nouns, regular verbs, and most adjectives.
  45. frequency
    the number of occurrences within a given time period
    Despite the frequency
    of their use, they are the hardest to master when learning a new language
    (Weber-Fox & Neville, 2001).
  46. composing
    the spatial property resulting from the arrangement of parts in relation to each other and to the whole
    When composing a letter or making a speech, we might think briefly about these
    words.
  47. particle
    (nontechnical usage) a tiny piece of anything
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  48. humans
    all of the living human inhabitants of the earth
    Humans, of course, are highly social animals.
  49. listener
    someone who listens attentively
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  50. adjective
    the word class that qualifies nouns
    Wernicke’s area is critical for both understanding and generating most advanced
    speech – including nouns, regular verbs, and most adjectives.
  51. archive
    a depository containing historical records and documents
    Table 12.2 lists the 20 most commonly used words in our text archive.
  52. guiding
    showing the way by conducting or leading
    In recent years, researchers have begun to emphasize the
    frontal lobe in guiding our social behaviors (e.g.,
  53. account for
    be the reason or explanation for
    This deceptively trivial percentage
    (less than 0.04%) of our vocabulary accounts for over half of the words we use
    in daily speech (Rochon, Saffran, Berndt, & Schwartz, 2000).
  54. noun
    a content word referring to a person, place, thing or action
    Wernicke’s area is critical for both understanding and generating most advanced
    speech – including nouns, regular verbs, and most adjectives.
  55. reflect
    throw or bend back from a surface
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  56. fewer
    quantifier meaning a smaller number of
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  57. hesitating
    lacking decisiveness of character
    Damage to Broca’s area – while
    Wernicke’s area is intact – results in people speaking in a painfully slow, hesitating
    way, often devoid of function words.
  58. surprisingly
    in a manner causing wonder or amazement
    All
    are function words and are used at surprisingly high rates.
  59. devoid
    completely wanting or lacking
    Damage to Broca’s area – while
    Wernicke’s area is intact – results in people speaking in a painfully slow, hesitating
    way, often devoid of function words.
  60. conjunction
    the state of being joined together
    Function words include pronouns, prepositions, articles, conjunctions, and
    auxiliary verbs.
  61. compose
    form the substance of
    When composing a letter or making a speech, we might think briefly about these
    words.
  62. cement
    a building material that is a powder made of a mixture of calcined limestone and clay; used with water and sand or gravel to make concrete and mortar
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  63. dependent on
    determined by conditions or circumstances that follow
    Most social emotions, skills in reading others’ emotions and intentions, and the
    ability to connect with others are highly dependent on an intact frontal lobe.
  64. connect
    fasten or put together two or more pieces
    Most social emotions, skills in reading others’ emotions and intentions, and the
    ability to connect with others are highly dependent on an intact frontal lobe.
  65. use
    put into service
    This deceptively trivial percentage
    (less than 0.04%) of our vocabulary accounts for over half of the words we use
    in daily speech (Rochon, Saffran, Berndt, & Schwartz, 2000).
  66. trivial
    (informal) small and of little importance
    This deceptively trivial percentage
    (less than 0.04%) of our vocabulary accounts for over half of the words we use
    in daily speech (Rochon, Saffran, Berndt, & Schwartz, 2000).
  67. compare
    examine and note the similarities or differences of
    [Hint: the answer is much more: 6.6% in this chapter compared to 4.0% in normal
    speech.]
  68. speech
    communication by word of mouth
    This deceptively trivial percentage
    (less than 0.04%) of our vocabulary accounts for over half of the words we use
    in daily speech (Rochon, Saffran, Berndt, & Schwartz, 2000).
  69. damage
    the occurrence of a change for the worse
    Damage to Broca’s area – while
    Wernicke’s area is intact – results in people speaking in a painfully slow, hesitating
    way, often devoid of function words.
  70. fluid
    continuous amorphous matter that tends to flow
    These
    people often speak warmly and fluidly while maintaining eye contact with the
    target person.
  71. primarily
    for the most part
    The only problem is that they primarily use function words with no
    FUNCTION WORDS 347
  72. normal
    being approximately average or within certain limits
    Has this paper used more or fewer articles than you would in normal speech?
  73. painfully
    unpleasantly
    Damage to Broca’s area – while
    Wernicke’s area is intact – results in people speaking in a painfully slow, hesitating
    way, often devoid of function words.
  74. testing
    experimentation to determine how well something works
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  75. laboratory
    a workplace for the conduct of scientific research
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  76. Fox
    a member of an Algonquian people formerly living west of Lake Michigan along the Fox River
    Despite the frequency
    of their use, they are the hardest to master when learning a new language
    (Weber-Fox & Neville, 2001).
  77. emotion
    any strong feeling
    Most social emotions, skills in reading others’ emotions and intentions, and the
    ability to connect with others are highly dependent on an intact frontal lobe.
  78. include
    have as a part; be made up out of
    Function words include pronouns, prepositions, articles, conjunctions, and
    auxiliary verbs.
  79. percentage
    a proportion in relation to a whole
    This deceptively trivial percentage
    (less than 0.04%) of our vocabulary accounts for over half of the words we use
    in daily speech (Rochon, Saffran, Berndt, & Schwartz, 2000).
  80. warmly
    in a manner having a comfortable degree of heat
    These
    people often speak warmly and fluidly while maintaining eye contact with the
    target person.
  81. exhibit
    make visible or apparent
    People with functioning Broca’s area – but
    with damage to Wernicke’s area – exhibit a completely different social style.
  82. hesitate
    pause or hold back in uncertainty or unwillingness
    Damage to Broca’s area – while
    Wernicke’s area is intact – results in people speaking in a painfully slow, hesitating
    way, often devoid of function words.
  83. perception
    the process of becoming aware through the senses
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  84. virtually
    in essence or in effect but not in fact
    In daily conversation, however, we have virtually no control or memory
    over how and when they are used either by the speaker or by ourselves.
  85. social
    living together or enjoying life in communities
    Humans, of course, are highly social animals.
  86. article
    one of a class of artifacts
    Function words include pronouns, prepositions, articles, conjunctions, and
    auxiliary verbs.
  87. behavior
    the way a person acts toward other people
    In recent years, researchers have begun to emphasize the
    frontal lobe in guiding our social behaviors (e.g.,
  88. impressive
    making a strong or vivid mental image
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  89. impact
    the striking of one body against another
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  90. dependent
    a person who relies on another person for support
    Most social emotions, skills in reading others’ emotions and intentions, and the
    ability to connect with others are highly dependent on an intact frontal lobe.
  91. link
    connect, fasten, or put together two or more pieces
    Language, too, has an important link to frontal lobe function.
  92. target
    a reference point to shoot at
    These
    people often speak warmly and fluidly while maintaining eye contact with the
    target person.
  93. refer
    make a remark that calls attention to
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  94. despite
    contemptuous disregard
    Despite the frequency
    of their use, they are the hardest to master when learning a new language
    (Weber-Fox & Neville, 2001).
  95. briefly
    for a short time
    When composing a letter or making a speech, we might think briefly about these
    words.
  96. highly
    to a great degree or extent; favorably or with much respect
    Humans, of course, are highly social animals.
  97. hint
    an indirect suggestion
    [Hint: the answer is much more: 6.6% in this chapter compared to 4.0% in normal
    speech.]
  98. language
    a means of communicating by the use of sounds or symbols
    Despite the frequency
    of their use, they are the hardest to master when learning a new language
    (Weber-Fox & Neville, 2001).
  99. situated
    situated in a particular spot or position
    Broca’s area, on the
    other hand, is situated in the left frontal lobe.
  100. cream
    the part of milk containing the butterfat
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  101. estimate
    judge tentatively
    As evidence,
    estimate how frequently you have seen articles (a, an, the) on the last page.
  102. examine
    observe, check out, and look over carefully or inspect
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  103. commonly
    under normal conditions
    Table 12.2 lists the 20 most commonly used words in our text archive.
  104. 400
    being one hundred more than three hundred
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  105. 100
    ten 10s
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  106. style
    how something is done or how it happens
    The ways people use function words reflects their linguistic style.
  107. content
    satisfied or showing satisfaction with things as they are
    content.
  108. used
    previously owned by another
    Table 12.2 lists the 20 most commonly used words in our text archive.
  109. describe
    give a statement representing something
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  110. memory
    the cognitive process whereby past experience is remembered
    We have a terrible memory of our own as well as other’s use of function words.
  111. daily
    of or belonging to or occurring every day
    This deceptively trivial percentage
    (less than 0.04%) of our vocabulary accounts for over half of the words we use
    in daily speech (Rochon, Saffran, Berndt, & Schwartz, 2000).
  112. critical
    of a serious examination and judgment of something
    Wernicke’s area is critical for both understanding and generating most advanced
    speech – including nouns, regular verbs, and most adjectives.
  113. rarely
    not often
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  114. in general
    without distinction of one from others
    In general, the
    majority of language functions are housed in the temporal and frontal lobes.
  115. 300
    being one hundred more than two hundred
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  116. rates
    a local tax on property (usually used in the plural)
    All
    are function words and are used at surprisingly high rates.
  117. paying
    for which money is paid
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  118. ice
    water frozen in the solid state
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  119. ways
    structure consisting of a sloping way down to the water from the place where ships are built or repaired
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  120. usually
    under normal conditions
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  121. maintain
    keep in a certain state, position, or activity
    These
    people often speak warmly and fluidly while maintaining eye contact with the
    target person.
  122. page
    one side of one leaf of a book or other document
    As evidence,
    estimate how frequently you have seen articles (a, an, the) on the last page.
  123. rate
    a quantity considered as a proportion of another quantity
    All
    are function words and are used at surprisingly high rates.
  124. skill
    an ability that has been acquired by training
    Most social emotions, skills in reading others’ emotions and intentions, and the
    ability to connect with others are highly dependent on an intact frontal lobe.
  125. mark
    a distinguishing symbol
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  126. a great deal
    to a very great degree or extent
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  127. conscious
    having awareness of surroundings and sensations and thoughts
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  128. ability
    the quality of having the means or skills to do something
    Most social emotions, skills in reading others’ emotions and intentions, and the
    ability to connect with others are highly dependent on an intact frontal lobe.
  129. great deal
    (often followed by `of') a large number or amount or extent
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  130. quickly
    with little or no delay
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  131. speak
    use language
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  132. intention
    an anticipated outcome that guides your planned actions
    Most social emotions, skills in reading others’ emotions and intentions, and the
    ability to connect with others are highly dependent on an intact frontal lobe.
  133. text
    the words of something written
    Table 12.2 lists the 20 most commonly used words in our text archive.
  134. returning
    tending to be turned back
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  135. learning
    the cognitive process of acquiring skill or knowledge
    Despite the frequency
    of their use, they are the hardest to master when learning a new language
    (Weber-Fox & Neville, 2001).
  136. van
    a closed railroad car that carries baggage or freight
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  137. prime
    of or relating to the first or originating agent
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  138. test
    standardized procedure for measuring sensitivity or aptitude
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  139. understanding
    the condition of someone who knows and comprehends
    Wernicke’s area is critical for both understanding and generating most advanced
    speech – including nouns, regular verbs, and most adjectives.
  140. contact
    the act of touching physically
    These
    people often speak warmly and fluidly while maintaining eye contact with the
    target person.
  141. majority
    the main part
    In general, the
    majority of language functions are housed in the temporal and frontal lobes.
  142. speed
    a rate at which something happens
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  143. people
    any group of human beings collectively
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  144. average
    an intermediate scale value regarded as normal or usual
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  145. reader
    a person who can read; a literate person
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  146. writer
    a person who is able to write and has written something
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  147. guide
    someone employed to conduct others
    In recent years, researchers have begun to emphasize the
    frontal lobe in guiding our social behaviors (e.g.,
  148. often
    many times at short intervals
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  149. brain
    the organ that is the center of the nervous system
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  150. slow
    not moving quickly; taking a comparatively long time
    Damage to Broca’s area – while
    Wernicke’s area is intact – results in people speaking in a painfully slow, hesitating
    way, often devoid of function words.
  151. completely
    with everything necessary
    People with functioning Broca’s area – but
    with damage to Wernicke’s area – exhibit a completely different social style.
  152. advanced
    situated ahead or going before
    Wernicke’s area is critical for both understanding and generating most advanced
    speech – including nouns, regular verbs, and most adjectives.
  153. regular
    conforming to a standard or pattern
    Wernicke’s area is critical for both understanding and generating most advanced
    speech – including nouns, regular verbs, and most adjectives.
  154. reading
    written material intended to be read
    Most social emotions, skills in reading others’ emotions and intentions, and the
    ability to connect with others are highly dependent on an intact frontal lobe.
  155. list
    a database containing an ordered array of items
    Table 12.2 lists the 20 most commonly used words in our text archive.
  156. advance
    move forward
    Wernicke’s area is critical for both understanding and generating most advanced
    speech – including nouns, regular verbs, and most adjectives.
  157. account
    a record or narrative description of past events
    This deceptively trivial percentage
    (less than 0.04%) of our vocabulary accounts for over half of the words we use
    in daily speech (Rochon, Saffran, Berndt, & Schwartz, 2000).
  158. frequently
    many times at short intervals
    As evidence,
    estimate how frequently you have seen articles (a, an, the) on the last page.
  159. problem
    a question raised for consideration or solution
    The only problem is that they primarily use function words with no
    FUNCTION WORDS 347
  160. powerful
    having great force or effect
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  161. recent
    of the immediate past or just previous to the present time
    In recent years, researchers have begun to emphasize the
    frontal lobe in guiding our social behaviors (e.g.,
  162. spoken
    uttered through the medium of speech or characterized by speech; sometimes used in combination
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  163. begin
    set in motion, cause to start
    In recent years, researchers have begun to emphasize the
    frontal lobe in guiding our social behaviors (e.g.,
  164. animal
    a living organism characterized by voluntary movement
    Humans, of course, are highly social animals.
  165. at the same time
    at the same instant
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  166. native
    belonging to one by birth
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  167. serve
    devote one's life or efforts to, as of countries or ideas
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  168. human
    a person; a hominid with a large brain and articulate speech
    Humans, of course, are highly social animals.
  169. different
    unlike in nature, quality, form, or degree
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  170. letter
    a written message addressed to a person or organization
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  171. terrible
    exceptionally bad or displeasing
    We have a terrible memory of our own as well as other’s use of function words.
  172. control
    power to direct or determine
    In daily conversation, however, we have virtually no control or memory
    over how and when they are used either by the speaker or by ourselves.
  173. conversation
    the use of speech for informal exchange of views or ideas
    In daily conversation, however, we have virtually no control or memory
    over how and when they are used either by the speaker or by ourselves.
  174. read
    look at and say out loud something written or printed
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  175. evidence
    knowledge on which to base belief
    As evidence,
    estimate how frequently you have seen articles (a, an, the) on the last page.
  176. most
    used to indicate the greatest amount or degree of a quality
    Table 12.2 lists the 20 most commonly used words in our text archive.
  177. learn
    gain knowledge or skills
    Despite the frequency
    of their use, they are the hardest to master when learning a new language
    (Weber-Fox & Neville, 2001).
  178. speaking
    capable of or involving speech or speaking
    Damage to Broca’s area – while
    Wernicke’s area is intact – results in people speaking in a painfully slow, hesitating
    way, often devoid of function words.
  179. chapter
    a subdivision of a written work; usually numbered and titled
    [Hint: the answer is much more: 6.6% in this chapter compared to 4.0% in normal
    speech.]
  180. over
    beyond the top or upper surface or edge
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  181. are
    a unit of surface area equal to 100 square meters
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  182. generally
    usually; as a rule
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  183. study
    applying the mind to learning and understanding a subject
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  184. other
    not the same one or ones already mentioned or implied
    We have a terrible memory of our own as well as other’s use of function words.
  185. letters
    scholarly attainment
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  186. result
    something that follows as a consequence
    Damage to Broca’s area – while
    Wernicke’s area is intact – results in people speaking in a painfully slow, hesitating
    way, often devoid of function words.
  187. paper
    a material made of cellulose pulp derived mainly from wood or rags or certain grasses
    Has this paper used more or fewer articles than you would in normal speech?
  188. attention
    the act of concentrating on something
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  189. important
    significant in effect or meaning
    Language, too, has an important link to frontal lobe function.
  190. deal
    be in charge of, act on, or dispose of
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  191. eye
    the organ of sight
    These
    people often speak warmly and fluidly while maintaining eye contact with the
    target person.
  192. top
    the upper part of anything
    The top ten words
    alone account for over 20% of the words we use.
  193. pay
    give money, usually in exchange for goods or services
    Despite rarely paying them any conscious attention, function words have
    a powerful impact on the listener/reader and, at the same time, reflect a great deal
    about the speaker/writer.
  194. table
    furniture having a smooth flat top supported by legs
    Table 12.2 lists the 20 most commonly used words in our text archive.
  195. way
    how something is done or how it happens
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  196. understand
    know and comprehend the nature or meaning of
    Wernicke’s area is critical for both understanding and generating most advanced
    speech – including nouns, regular verbs, and most adjectives.
  197. answer
    a statement made to reply to a question or criticism
    [Hint: the answer is much more: 6.6% in this chapter compared to 4.0% in normal
    speech.]
  198. hold
    have in one's hands or grip
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  199. master
    a person who has authority over others
    Despite the frequency
    of their use, they are the hardest to master when learning a new language
    (Weber-Fox & Neville, 2001).
  200. ten
    the cardinal number that is the sum of nine and one
    The top ten words
    alone account for over 20% of the words we use.
  201. left
    being or located on or directed toward the side of the body to the west when facing north
    Within the left temporal lobe (at least for most people) is Wernicke’s area.
  202. have
    possess, either in a concrete or an abstract sense
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  203. at least
    not less than
    Within the left temporal lobe (at least for most people) is Wernicke’s area.
  204. person
    a human being
    These
    people often speak warmly and fluidly while maintaining eye contact with the
    target person.
  205. as well
    in addition
    We have a terrible memory of our own as well as other’s use of function words.
  206. short
    having little length or lacking in length
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  207. hard
    resisting weight or pressure
    Despite the frequency
    of their use, they are the hardest to master when learning a new language
    (Weber-Fox & Neville, 2001).
  208. of course
    as might be expected
    Humans, of course, are highly social animals.
  209. return
    go or come back to place, condition, or activity where one has been before
    Returning back to the three hypothetical people describing
    ice cream, their different uses of function words mark them in predictable
    ways.
  210. either
    also, likewise, as well
    In daily conversation, however, we have virtually no control or memory
    over how and when they are used either by the speaker or by ourselves.
  211. English
    of or relating to England or its culture or people
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  212. making
    the act that results in something coming to be
    When composing a letter or making a speech, we might think briefly about these
    words.
  213. alone
    isolated from others
    The top ten words
    alone account for over 20% of the words we use.
  214. while
    a period of indeterminate length marked by some action
    Damage to Broca’s area – while
    Wernicke’s area is intact – results in people speaking in a painfully slow, hesitating
    way, often devoid of function words.
  215. within
    on the inside
    Within the left temporal lobe (at least for most people) is Wernicke’s area.
  216. least
    the superlative of `little' that can be used with mass nouns and is usually preceded by `the'; a quantifier meaning smallest in amount or extent or degree
    Within the left temporal lobe (at least for most people) is Wernicke’s area.
  217. together
    in contact with each other or in proximity
    These junk words, usually referred to as function words or particles, serve
    as the cement that holds the content words together.
  218. more
    greater in size or amount or extent or degree
    As can be seen, function words
    are generally very short (usually 1–4 letters), are spoken quickly (at a speed of
    100–300 milliseconds – the rate often used in laboratory studies testing priming
    or subliminal perception), and glossed over even more quickly when we read
    (Van Petten & Kutas, 1991).
  219. large
    above average in size or number or quantity or magnitude
    If we examine the human brain
    and compare it with every other mammal, the frontal lobe of the cerebral cortex is
    disproportionately large.
  220. half
    one of two equal parts of a divisible whole
    This deceptively trivial percentage
    (less than 0.04%) of our vocabulary accounts for over half of the words we use
    in daily speech (Rochon, Saffran, Berndt, & Schwartz, 2000).
  221. high
    being at or having a relatively great or specific elevation
    All
    are function words and are used at surprisingly high rates.
  222. less
    a quantifier meaning not as great in amount or degree
    This deceptively trivial percentage
    (less than 0.04%) of our vocabulary accounts for over half of the words we use
    in daily speech (Rochon, Saffran, Berndt, & Schwartz, 2000).
  223. in this
    (formal) in or into that thing or place
    [Hint: the answer is much more: 6.6% in this chapter compared to 4.0% in normal
    speech.]
  224. general
    applying to all or most members of a category or group
    In general, the
    majority of language functions are housed in the temporal and frontal lobes.
  225. well
    in a good or satisfactory manner or to a high standard
    Whereas the average native English speaker has an impressive
    vocabulary of well over 100,000 words, fewer than 400 are function words
    (Baayen, Piepenbrock, & Gulikers, 1995).
  226. course
    a connected series of events or actions or developments
    Humans, of course, are highly social animals.
Created on Tue Nov 22 05:52:46 EST 2011 (updated Mon Jun 09 03:07:53 EDT 2014)

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