View source for Line (in relational network theory)

In the notations used by [[relational network theory]], a '''line''' connects [[node (in neurocognitive linguistics)|nodes]].  Lines often have labels next to them in order to make network diagrams easier to read;  the labels are not part of the structure.

Connections differ in strength. A line of a given strength may carry varying degrees of activation.  It is not the case that you just have a line connecting two points to indicate an interrelationship or else you don't.  You can have lines of varying degrees of strength, from a slight, tenuous connection to a strong one.  Like a pathway going through a field or a jungle, the more it gets used, the easier it is to use the next time.

=== In Compact vs. Narrow Notation ===

* All lines in ''expanded'' or [[narrow relational network notation|narrow notation]] are one-way lines. 
* Lines of [[compact relational network notation|compact notation]] are bidirectional; they are like lines on a highway map for divided highways -- really a pair of oppositely directed lines but drawn as one, just to keep the map from being too cluttered.  

=== Sources ===

*[[Sydney M. Lamb|Lamb, Sydney M.]]. 2004.  '' [http://books.google.com/books/about/Language_and_Reality.html?id=vrlPUxB2_JwC Language and Reality: Selected Writings of Sydney Lamb].'' London: Continuum.
*[http://www.ruf.rice.edu/~lngbrain LangBrain]

=== See Also ===
*[[Conditioning line]]

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[[Category:DICT]]
[[Category:Grammar]]
[[Category:Stratificational_Grammar]]