La paraphrase comme lieu d’observation et de pratique de la dimension subjective et intersubjective du lexique et du discours

In the context of complete meaningful linguistic activities such as writing summaries, the paraphrase prompts reflection on the interaction between words, meaning and discourse, and thus helps develop the lexical component of discourse competence. Paraphrasing exercises are useful for both native and foreign language practice, especially for future translators, and lend students greater awareness of the shades of meaning distinguishing synonymic expressions in given contexts. We show that variations in meaning due to the use of synonyms and morpho-syntactical reformulations may be analyzed in terms of point of view and focalization, thereby taking into account the subjective and intersubjective dimensions of lexicon and discourse.