14. Conceptualizing the present through construal aspects

Since the grammar of every language can divide temporal reality in a different manner, this chapter aims to present a method of arriving at the understanding of one of its dimensions – the present – encoded in the structures of English. These structures consist of eleven temporal and aspectual constructions, which are analysed by means of Cognitive Grammar tools, namely construal aspects. To be able to make detailed observations concerning temporal reality, the author proposes to operationalise the construal aspects by ascribing specific values to them. With this approach it is possible to formulate precise conclusions concerning such facets of the present as its extent and its two boundaries – the past and future.

Published online: 24 July 2012
https://doi.org/10.1075/hcp.37.20dro