Comparing and combining semantic verb classifications

Abstract

Abstract. In this article, we address the task of comparing and combining different semantic verb classifications within one language. We present a methodology for the manual analysis of individual resources on the level of semantic features. The resulting representations can be aligned across resources, and allow a contrastive analysis of these resources. In a case study on the Manner of Motion domain across four German verb classifications, we find that some features are used in all resources, while others reflect individual emphases on specific meaning aspects. We also provide evidence that feature representations can ultimately provide the basis for linking verb classes themselves across resources, which allows us to combine their coverage and descriptive detail.