This chapter introduces the theoretical context for the compositional semantic framework to be developed in the book. A key innovation is to posit explicit representations of context – formally, variables for assignment functions – in the syntax and semantics of natural language. A primary focus is on a spectrum of linguistic shifting phenomena, in which the context relevant for interpretation depends on features of the linguistic environment. The proposed theory affords a standardization of quantification across domains, and an improved framework for theorizing about linguistic meaning and the role of context in interpretation. Comparisons with alternative operator-based theories are briefly considered. An outline of the subsequent chapters is presented.

This chapter takes stock of key developments in the book, and considers several avenues for future research.

This chapter introduces key elements of the basic syntax and semantics. Topics of discussion include the treatments of compositional semantic value, assignment functions and variables for assignments, pronouns and traces, and quantification in object language and metalanguage. A preliminary compositional semantic derivation is provided.