The Semantics of Technical Graphics

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication Jan 1989

Alan D. Manning

Abstract

Common technical graphics terms table, graph, chart, and diagram share a parallel logical structure with the four common types of technical graphics that the terms typically refer to. In the system of terminology as in the system of graphics types, four logical categories result from the possible permutations of two features. The abstract semantic features which underlie the meanings of the terms are in this discussion labeled as [UNITS] and [PROPERTIES]; likewise the significant features which distinguish the graphics types are here labeled as “units” and “properties.” These proposed semantic features reflect a fundamental semantic relation common to all meaningful statements, the attribution of a property (a predicate) to an object (a subject). The connection between term-features ([UNITS] and [PROPERTIES]) and type-features (“units” and “properties”) is a variable but systematic sense-reference relation. Consequently the terminology used to refer to the various graphics types varies systematically according to the markedness relationships among the terms. Principled explanations of the best uses for each graphics type follow from the proposed logical relations between them.

Journal: Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Published: 1989-01-01
DOI: 10.2190/pv8h-vwdr-dk35-mtnh
Open Access: Closed
Topics: multilingual writers

Citation Context

Cited by in this index (4)

Olman (2022)

Decolonizing the Color-Line: A Topological Analysis of W.E.B. Du Bois's Infogra…

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Campbell (1991)

Structural Cohesion in Technical Texts

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Ferguson et al. (1990)

Grammar and Technical Writing

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Gross (1990)

Extending the Expressive Power of Language: Tables, Graphs, and Diagrams

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Cites in this index (3)

Manning (1988)

Literary vs. Technical Writing: Substitutes vs. Standards for Reality

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Gross (1983)

A Primer on Tables and Figures

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication
Cury (1979)

Visual/Graphic Aids for the Technical Report

Journal of Technical Writing and Communication

Also cites 4 works outside this index ↓

10.1109/TPC.1982.6447763

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10.1109/TPC.1982.6447764

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Manning A. D., The Invariant Code-Significance of Lexical Items, Semiotica, 1989 (forthcoming).

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10.1016/0024-3841(85)90011-7

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