About
Welcome to the Tsushima Laboratory: Theoretical Linguistics and English Linguistics
The Tsushima Laboratory is dedicated to the study of English linguistics grounded in theoretical linguistics, particularly Cognitive Grammar and Construction Grammar. Based on the view that language reflects fundamental human cognitive processes, we investigate a wide range of constructional phenomena in English and, from a contrastive perspective, in Japanese. Our research focuses on how linguistic meanings are conceptualized and how they are conventionally used in communication. In particular, the laboratory takes Ronald W. Langacker’s Cognitive Grammar as its primary theoretical framework.
Major research interests include Cognitive Constructional Approaches, Usage-Based Models, constructionalization, emergent and incipient constructions, language evolution and language development, conceptualization, (inter)subjectivity and subjectification, grounding (symbol grounding), construal, cognitive abilities and operations, and cognitive design.
In addition, our seminar explores the theme of Language and Design. As a new interdisciplinary endeavor, we are developing what may be called a Cognitive Design Approach, which seeks to examine the relationship between language and design from the perspective of Cognitive Linguistics, particularly spatial cognition. By focusing on differences in how English and Japanese speakers conceptualize and describe the world, we analyze language-specific patterns of expression and investigate how these insights can be applied to areas such as graphic design. Particular emphasis is placed on applications to User Experience (UX) Design.
Profile
Yasuhiro Tsushima
Associate Professor, Fuji Women’s University
Ph.D. in Linguistics, Hokkaido University
Associate Professor, Fuji Women’s University
Ph.D. in Linguistics, Hokkaido University
Doctoral Dissertation:
A Cognitive Linguistic Study of Implicit Theme Resultative Constructions and Their Related Constructions
A Cognitive Linguistic Study of Implicit Theme Resultative Constructions and Their Related Constructions
Research Interests
My main research focuses on how linguistic constructions emerge, develop, and form structured networks. I am especially interested in non-canonical English constructions, implicit participants, constructional schemas, and the relationship between grammar, cognition, and usage.
Recent keywords include: Cognitive Constructional Approach, Usage-Based Model, constructionalization, emergent constructions, bridge constructions, language evolution, language development, conceptualization, subjectification, intersubjectivity, grounding, and cognitive operations.
Teaching
I teach courses related to English linguistics, theoretical linguistics, cognitive grammar, construction grammar, academic English, and English communication. Through these courses, students are encouraged to understand language not only as a formal system but also as a reflection of human cognition, communication, and culture.
Contact
If you would like to get in touch regarding research, teaching, academic collaboration, guest lectures, conference presentations, or student supervision, please feel free to contact me using the information here.