| Title |
Does simplification of grammar reduce sentence acceptability? A case of Lithuanian finite and non-finite verbal forms |
| Authors |
Bružaitė-Liseckienė, Justina ; Vilkaitė-Lozdienė, Laura |
| DOI |
10.57088/978-3-7329-8641-5 |
| ISBN |
9783732912728 |
| Full Text |
|
| Is Part of |
Easy language in research and practice: Users, modalities and domains: proceedings of the 4th KLAARA Easy language conference / Chris Maaß, Laura Marie Maaß, Velga Polinska (eds.).. Berlin : Frank & Timme GmbH Verlag für wissenschaftliche Literatur, 2026. p. 267-302.. ISBN 9783732912728 |
| Keywords [eng] |
Easy Language ; acceptability ; acceptance ; grammatical simplicity ; text simplification ; Easy Language target groups ; non-finite verb forms |
| Abstract [eng] |
Simplifying grammatical structures plays a central role in ensuring that Easy Language texts are accessible. And yet, the relationship between grammatical simplification and the acceptability of Easy Language texts or their sentences (both by target readers and the general audience) remains largely underexplored. In this study, we investigated whether the choice between synonymous non-finite or finite (and potentially simpler) verb forms in sentences affects the acceptability of those sentences. The study was conducted in the Lithuanian language with typical readers (older and younger native speakers) and Easy Language target groups: individuals with intellectual disabilities, people with early-stage dementia, and non-native speakers of Lithuanian. A total of 161 participants evaluated sentence pairs differing only in the verb form (finite vs. non-finite). Quantitative data (3,147 judgments in total) were analysed by fitting Generalized Linear Mixed-Effects Models (GLMMs). Following this analysis, we carried out a thematic analysis of the qualitative data, consisting of participants’ comments and reflections on their choices. The results revealed no overall systematic preference for either finite or non-finite verb forms across groups, suggesting that both types of constructions are equally acceptable. Qualitative analysis showed a dual pattern in participants’ evaluations. Finite constructions were linked to simplicity and clarity, while non-finite forms were valued for brevity and style. Preferences were also shaped by context: finite forms were associated with spoken language, while non-finite forms with formal or written registers. Easy Language groups gave fewer comments but reflected on similar aspects, with non-native speakers showing strong metalinguistic awareness shaped by their learning experience. Overall, the findings indicate that grammatical simplification does not reduce sentence acceptability and that, from an acceptability perspective, both finite and nonfinite forms are viable options, especially when contextual factors are taken into account. |
| Published |
Berlin : Frank & Timme GmbH Verlag für wissenschaftliche Literatur, 2026 |
| Type |
Conference paper |
| Language |
English |
| Publication date |
2026 |
| CC license |
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