WALS stands for World Atlas of Language Structures, which is a comprehensive linguistic database that provides information and analyses regarding the structural properties and characteristics of languages spoken around the world.
The WALS database contains data on various linguistic features such as phonology, morphology, syntax, and lexicon, allowing linguists and researchers to explore and compare different languages across the globe. It aims to document the diverse structural patterns and typological variations found in languages by creating a comprehensive inventory of linguistic properties and organizing this information in a systematic and accessible manner.
The linguistic data in WALS is collected through collaborative efforts by linguists and language experts from different regions and language families. It is organized into chapters or sections, each focusing on a specific linguistic feature or typological category. Each chapter offers a thorough description of the typological feature, accompanied by illustrative examples from different languages.
WALS also provides maps, visualizations, and statistical summaries to facilitate cross-linguistic comparisons and identify patterns or trends in language structures. The database is regularly updated as new research emerges, ensuring that it remains a valuable and up-to-date resource for both linguists and language enthusiasts.
In summary, WALS is a linguistics database that serves as a comprehensive reference tool, offering detailed information, analyses, and comparisons of various structural features found in languages spoken worldwide.
