# PSG

CEFR C2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/psg
Updated: 2026-05-10

## Definition

Stands for Phrase Structure Grammar. It is a way of describing how sentences are built from smaller parts like nouns and verbs.

For teachers: Abbreviation for Phrase Structure Grammar, a type of generative grammar that describes the hierarchical structure of sentences through rewrite rules. It represents the constituency of a sentence by breaking it down into its component phrases and words.

## Examples

- The professor explained the basics of PSG in the first lecture.
- When analyzing the sentence structure, the linguist used a PSG model to show how the noun phrase and verb phrase combined.
- While modern generative theories have evolved significantly, the foundational principles of PSG remain essential for understanding how syntactic trees represent the underlying logic of human language.

## Usage notes

- Typically used as an uncountable noun when referring to the theory; can be used as a modifier before other nouns like 'rules' or 'analysis'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.