Nonindefinite

Nonindefinite is a term used in linguistics to describe noun phrases that are not indefinite. It refers to forms that convey definiteness, specificity, or generality rather than introducing a new, undetermined entity into discourse. The concept is often discussed in contrast to indefinite noun phrases, such as those containing the articles a or an in English.

Scope and readings

Nonindefinite noun phrases can be definite (the car), demonstrative (this car), or generic (Dogs are friendly). They may also include proper names (Alice) or noun phrases with no explicit article in languages that encode definiteness through other means. In semantics, nonindefinite readings are associated with referentiality and identifiability: the listener can identify a particular entity or a general type, rather than a newly introduced object.

Cross-linguistic variation

Languages differ in how they mark definiteness and indefiniteness. Some languages have definite or demonstrative systems without indefinite articles, while others rely on context, case marking, or word order. In languages with rich demonstrative systems, nonindefinite readings can be expressed without a definite article. Bare plurals, numerals, or classifiers can also participate in nonindefinite interpretations in certain linguistic contexts.

Relation to related concepts

Nonindefinite is related to definiteness, specificity, referentiality, and article systems. It is often discussed alongside indefinite NP readings, the use of demonstratives, and the semantics of generic versus particular reference.

See also

Definiteness, Indefinite article, Demonstratives, Specificity, Referential theory, Grammar.

Notes

The term is used variably in scholarly literature and is not universally standardized; its interpretation depends on theoretical framework and language data.