1. Grammar as it is used in contemporary language: This refers to the rules and patterns of language that are used in everyday speech and writing today. This approach recognizes that language is constantly evolving and that grammatical rules are not fixed. For example, contemporary grammar might include the use of "they" as a singular pronoun for someone whose gender is unknown or non-binary, even though this usage was traditionally considered incorrect.
2. The study of contemporary language: This is a field of linguistics that focuses on the analysis of language as it is used in the present day. It often uses methods from corpus linguistics and sociolinguistics to analyze large amounts of data and understand how language is used in different contexts.
3. Grammar textbooks and resources that focus on contemporary language: There are many grammar books and websites that aim to teach the rules of language as it is used today. These resources may be more focused on practical usage and less on traditional grammatical theory.
4. A particular approach to grammar teaching: Some educators advocate for a "contemporary grammar" approach that focuses on teaching grammar in a way that is relevant and useful to students' everyday lives. This approach may use examples from popular culture and media, and emphasize practical skills like writing and communication.
To understand what "contemporary grammar" means in a specific context, it's important to consider the following:
* Who is using the term? A linguist, a teacher, or a student?
* What is the purpose of the discussion? Is it about teaching, research, or everyday language?
* What specific aspects of grammar are being discussed? Are they talking about syntax, morphology, or pragmatics?
By considering these factors, you can better understand the meaning of "contemporary grammar" in a given situation.