On Word Classes

Basic questions relative to word classification are discussed, including the type of unit that should be classified (words, not lexemes); the need to set up clear objectives to classification: & the rigorous distinction between classes (based on paradigmatic relations) & functions (based on syntagmatic relations). The traditionally accepted distinction between adjectives & nouns is considered & shown not to be a class distinction, but rather a functional distinction. Thus, adjectives & nouns are not distinct word classes in Portuguese. 4 References. Adapted from the source document