Computational Representation of Linguistic Structures using Domain-Specific Languages

Abstract: We describe a modular system for generating sentences from formal definitions of underlying linguistic structures using domain-specific languages. The system uses Java in general, Prolog for lexical entries and custom domain-specific languages based on Functional Grammar and Functional Discourse Grammar notation, implemented using the ANTLR parser generator. We show how linguistic and technological parts can be brought together in a natural language processing system and how domain-specific languages can be used as a tool for consistent formal notation in linguistic description.