Semantic change Flashcards

1
Q

Broadening

A

occurs when the meaning of the word becomes more broad or general

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2
Q

Narrowing

A

this is when words move from a broad meaning to a more specific meaning.

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3
Q

Amelioration

A

when a word acquires a more positive meaning

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4
Q

Pejoration

A

when a word acquires a negative meaning

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5
Q

weakening

A

when words lose some of their original strength over time

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6
Q

idiomatic expression

A

an everyday expression whose meaning is not predictable from the meanings of its constitutive elements

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7
Q

Euphamism

A

a generally innocuous word or expression used in place of one that may be found offensive or suggest something unpleasant. e.g. ethnic solution for genocide

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8
Q

Dysphemism

A

the opposite of euphemism. though meant to shock or offend, dysphemisms may also serve as in group markers to signal closeness.

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