Definition of cataphora in English:
cataphora
nounkəˈtaf(ə)rəkəˈtæf(ə)rə
mass nounGrammar The use of a word or phrase that refers to or stands for a later word or phrase (e.g. the pronoun he in he may be approaching 37, but Jeff has no plans to retire from the sport yet).
Compare with anaphora
Example sentencesExamples
- The notion of cataphora that I have adopted is a broad one, which encompasses cataphores au sens large.
- This kind of usage, common in journalism, is perfectly acceptable, despite the fact that inter-sentential cataphora is often ignored by grammarians.
- Cataphora is permitted in certain constructions involving subordinate clauses, although it is not in compound or paratactic ones
Origin
1970s: from cata- on the pattern of anaphora.
Definition of cataphora in US English:
cataphora
nounkəˈtaf(ə)rəkəˈtæf(ə)rə
Grammar The use of a word or phrase that refers to or stands for a later word or phrase (e.g., the pronoun he in he may be 37, but Jeff behaves like a teenager).
Compare with anaphora
Example sentencesExamples
- The notion of cataphora that I have adopted is a broad one, which encompasses cataphores au sens large.
- Cataphora is permitted in certain constructions involving subordinate clauses, although it is not in compound or paratactic ones
- This kind of usage, common in journalism, is perfectly acceptable, despite the fact that inter-sentential cataphora is often ignored by grammarians.
Origin
1970s: from cata- on the pattern of anaphora.