Date:  Thu, 27 Jun 1996 15:40:50 -0400

From:  "Bethany K. Dumas" <dumasb[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]UTK.EDU>

Subject: Uses of the Progressive Aspect



The Comprehensive Grammar of the English Language (CGEL) discusses uses

of the progressive aspect and says, among other things, that use of the

past progressive may suggest either politeness (particularly when

combined with the attitudinal past tense) or casualness of conversational

intent (as opposed to purposeful discussion) (pp. 209-210). I am seeking

published research (or research in progress) discussing these uses of the

past progressive in American English.



Thanks,

Bethany Dumas



Bethany K. Dumas, J.D., Ph.D.  Applied Linguistics, Language & Law

Department of English      EMAIL: dumasb[AT SYMBOL GOES HERE]utk.edu

415 McClung Tower        (423) 974-6965, (423) 974-6926 (FAX)

University of Tennessee     Editor, Language in the Judicial Process

Knoxville, TN 37996-0430 USA  <http://ljp.la.utk.edu>