8. Contrastative analyis (CA): a renewed vision

Abstract

The Contrastive Analysis Hypothesis (CAH), which purpose was to detect errors in learning a foreign language, appeared as a discipline during the 1950’. In spite of its failure in the teaching field, a renewed proposal, focused more on the production of differential typologies among languages, has reappeared under the skeptical look of some linguists. This documental research therefore, aims to describe the new true nature of Contrastive Analysis (AC) in order to disassociate it with its former conception. In this respect, a redefinition of AC has been postulated, followed by a description of its levels and phases, plus a contrast with CAH at every aspect to show what AC was and what it now is. This dissertation ends emphasizing the new nature of AC and its development and expansion in the last decade.