Corpus Linguistics: what it is and what it can do

This paper is an overview of the application of corpus linguistics methodologies, with special reference to the field of cross-cultural studies. It discusses the application of corpus techniques in the study of grammar, semantics, evaluation, contemporary language evolution, translation, discourse studies and cross-cultural issues. If some of these linguistic aspects are investigated by sorting to general corpora or, more precisely, ‘heterogeneric’ corpora, more specific research objectives may be achieved by compiling ‘monogeneric’, that is, ‘ad-hoc’ specialized corpora. Empirical data provided by both types of corpora may help cross-cultural studies to become more systematic in detecting the shifts in cultural practices as reflected in language.