If the word semantic had not been associated with the narrow definition of 'meaning' that it had for most linguists in the 1960s and 1970s, it is possible that Halliday's revised model of language might have been called "Systemic Semantic Grammar". Instead, it is Systemic Functional Grammar — and the chief significance of the term "functional" is that it serves as a useful reminder of the third of Halliday's great innovative concepts. This is the insight that every piece of text (such as, for example, a simple clause) realises several different types of meaning, often in the same element. In other words, it serves for the expression of 'representational' meaning or, to use Halliday's term, experiential meaning; logical meanings … interpersonal meanings … and … textual meanings …
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[1] This is misrepresents Halliday because, as demonstrated in previous posts, Halliday makes a clear distinction between semantics and grammar; see [2].
[2] This misunderstands the chief significance of the term 'functional' in SFL theory. Halliday & Matthiessen (2014: 49):
Being a ‘functional grammar’ means that priority is given to the view ‘from above’; that is, grammar is seen as a resource for making meaning — it is a ‘semanticky’ kind of grammar. But the focus of attention is still on the grammar itself.
Giving priority to the view ‘from above’ means that the organising principle adopted is that of system: the grammar is seen as a network of interrelated meaningful choices.
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