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On the Non-Uniqueness of Phonological Representations

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  22 April 2026

Sanford A. Schane
Sanford A. Schane*
Affiliation:
University of California, San Diego
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Abstract

The problem of non-unique phonological representations is examined in its historical context. The discussion treats two types of phonological representations: the traditional phonemic representations and the underlying representations of generative phonology. Both systems allow for non-unique representations. In phonemics, a resolution of this problem was found within the distinctive-feature framework, whereas in generative phonology, unique representations become possible only if one recognizes a theory of phonological markedness.

Information

Type
Research Article
Information
Language , Volume 44 , Issue 4 , December 1968, pp. 709 - 716
Copyright
Copyright © 1968 by Linguistic Society of America

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References

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