Methodology

This chapter serves as an introduction to the research study, focusing on defining key terms, presenting the research philosophy, and introducing the research design and data collection process. The chapter begins by providing clear and concise definitions of the key terms that will be used throughout the book. These terms include “grams”, “verbal properties”, “comitatives”, and “coordinating conjunctions”. By establishing a common understanding of these terms, the chapter sets the foundation for the subsequent discussions. Next, this chapter outlines the research philosophy that underpins the study. It discusses the theoretical framework and approach adopted to investigate the diachronic development of coordinating conjunctions. The research philosophy emphasizes the importance of a data-driven and bottom-up approach. Furthermore, this chapter introduces the research design and the data collection process. It outlines the methodology employed, such as a combination of first-hand and second-hand data. The chapter also discusses the selection criteria for the study participants, the design of the questionnaire, and the database of coordinating conjunctions created.