Linguistics ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-16-2026

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the cumulative repercussions of a word’s typical context of use on lexical representations and speech production, both in cases of language learning and language variation, through the lens of Usage-Based Linguistics. The data come from sociolinguistic interviews with Spanish-speaking children and adults of Mexican heritage living and working in the Pacific Northwestern United States. Each study examines Spanish word-initial /bdɡ/ productions using a myriad of statistical approaches. The dissertation adds to our understanding of the long-term storage of variation in lexical representations, as well as its nuanced impact on children’s and adults’ speech production. The dissertation also adds to our understanding of how usage works to reshape lexical representations during language development. The results also further inform our understanding of ‘natural classes’ in phonology.

Language

English

Keywords

usage-based linguistics, exemplar models, cumulative usage effects, phonology, child language acquisition, language variatio

Document Type

Dissertation

Degree Name

Linguistics

Level of Degree

Doctoral

Department Name

Department of Linguistics

First Committee Member (Chair)

Naomi Shin

Second Committee Member

Esther L. Brown

Third Committee Member

Chris Koops

Fourth Committee Member

Jill Morford

Fifth Committee Member

Stefon Flego

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