LC: Change Processes Flashcards
Semantic Shifts, How Words Are Introduced Into English
What is Amelioration?
When a word undergoes a semantic shift that changes its meaning to be more positive!
(e.g. “Nice” going from meaning foolish/stupid to meaning good!)
What is the semantic shift process when a word undergoes a shift that positively impacts its meaning?
Amelioration!
What is Pejoration?
When a word undergoes a semantic shift that changes its meaning to be more negative!
(e.g. “Silly” going from meaning happy to meaning foolish/stupid!)
What is the semantic shift process when a word undergoes a shift that negatively impacts its meaning?
Pejoration!
What is Broadening?
When a word undergoes a semantic shift that changes its usage/meaning to be more broad!
(e.g
What is the semantic shift process when a word undergoes a shift that broadens its meaning or usage?
Broadening!
What is Narrowing?
When a word undergoes a semantic shift that changes its usage/meaning to be more narrow!
What is the semantic shift process when a word undergoes a shift that narrows its meaning or usage?
Narrowing!
What is Weakening?
When a word undergoes a semantic shift that changes its usage/meaning to be weaker/not as strong!
What is the semantic shift process when a word undergoes a shift that weakens its meaning?
Weakening!
