Single Idea 3083

[catalogued under 19. Language / F. Communication / 6. Interpreting Language / b. Indeterminate translation]

Full Idea

There are many predicates of a given language that resist translation into another language, …so it is unlikely that there is a basic set of underlying structures common to all languages.

Gist of Idea

Many predicates totally resist translation, so a universal underlying structure to languages is unlikely

Source

Gilbert Harman (Thought [1973], 5.4)

Book Reference

Harman,Gilbert: 'Thought' [Princeton 1977], p.81


A Reaction

Not convincing. 'Structures' are not the same as 'predicates'. Once a language has mapped its predicates, that blocks the intrusions of differently sliced alien predicates. No gaps.