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N-V-T Distinction

N-V-T is a theoretical framework for the analysis of address pronouns and their semantic alternatives, in the field of sociolinguistics. It has been devised by linguist Manuela Cook as a new model of universal application when compared with the former T-V distinction. [1][2]

N-V-T identifies three distinct approaches when addressing an individual or a group: N (neutral) for a socially uncommitted posture; V and T, for, respectively a polite/formal and a familiar/informal posture. N, V and T are considered in relation to factors solidarity and power. Attention is equally given to the dynamics between the three options as well as to varying degrees and nuances of politeness/formality within V and familiarity/informality within T.

The T-V distinction is based on the work of Brown and Gilman [3], who used Latin pronouns tū and vōs as symbols for a familiar (T) and a polite (V) approach. N-V-T highlights the option of bypassing the T-V duality and cites the well-known English pronoun ‘you’ as an accessible example. It also takes into account the possibility of a traditional V pronoun becoming an encoder for the N position, where English ‘you’ is again an example. N-V-T covers different morphological strategies, including nominal encoders, as a substitute for V and T pronouns; and once more English provides a meaningful contribution as a language rich in such expressions, e.g. ‘Sir’ for V and ‘love’ for T, besides several others.

Although the N-V-T framework of analysis differs structurally from the former T-V distinction, the T and V symbols have been retained – in a tribute to Brown and Gilman – and in N-V-T they represent the worldwide human tendency to adopt familiar/informal and polite/formal address postures in addition to N, the neutral choice.

References [1] N-V-T, a framework for the analysis of social dynamics in address pronouns published in Paul Bouissac (Ed.) (2019), pp. 17-34 [2] Beyond T and V – Theoretical Reflections on the Analysis of Forms of Address published AJL, SAPUB (2014), pp. 253-276 [3] The Pronouns of Power and Solidarity published in Thomas A. Sebeok, M.I.T Press (1960), pp. 253-276

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