linguisticsgirl.com: ... In my mind, grammatical *form**(what a word looks like) is clearly separate from grammatical function (what a word does). From ODO: 2.1. Any of the ways in which a word may be spelled, pronounced, or inflected 4.2. [count noun] A set order of words; a formula:
When Michael J. Fox played 'Johnny B. Goode' as Marty McFly in 'Back to the Future' in 1985, he was just aping Chuck Berry's classic fretwork for the camera. (Along with some Jimi Hendrix, Eddie Van Halen and Pete Townsend guitar moves thrown in for good measure.) Today, Fox can really play the song.
All Rights Reserved. 1  Back to the Future Marty McFly Costume. 2  100% polyester fabric & fiberfill. 3  Officially licensed.  White and black plaid short-sleeved shirt buttons at center 1  front. Blue jean jacket fastens w/ metal snaps at center front.  Classic red vest has separating zipper in 1  front. Note: Weird scientist best friend not included.