Language Change AO1 Flashcards
1
Q
Semantic shift
A
When a word changes due to no specific reason or pattern,
e.g. nice: foolish – precise – pleasant
2
Q
Amelioration
A
When a word meaning changes to something more pleasant, e.g. naughty once meant poor now means mischievous
3
Q
Perjoration
A

When a word meaning changes to become worse, e.g. notorious change from famous and infamous
4
Q
Narrowing
A
One mean in changes to become more specific
5
Q
Broadening
A
The meaning of a word changes to become less specific
6
Q
Zero derivation
A
Words, world-class changes, e.g. verbing and nouning
