What can linguistic approaches bring to English for Specific Purposes?

Abstract : This paper explores the various contributions that linguistics has made to English for Specific Purposes (ESP). First, we set out a broad distinction between concept-oriented and context-oriented approaches in linguistics. Although in theory these traditions are largely incompatible, there are signs that the pervasive use of corpus analysis is producing a convergence of the two. Then, we demonstrate a small number of key ideas based on the techniques and theoretical assumptions which we have developed in our own research and teaching: 1) use of corpora to identify “lexicogrammatical patterns”, the basic buildingblocks of ESP texts, and 2) the use of phraseological training and databases to enhance the learning process and skill-set of future technical translators. Finally, we look at how other linguists have contributed to the general development of linguistic approaches over the history of the journal ASp.