lexical analysis Flashcards
Acronym
An abbreviation formed from the initial letters of other words and pronounced as a word
E.g “NASA, ASAP”
Antonyms
Two or more words with opposite meanings
Collocation
Collocation is ‘a predictable combination of words’ for example we can say heavy rain but not strong rain because it does not sound right’ likewise, we can say ‘do exercise’ but not ‘make exercise’.
Connotation
An associated, symbolic meaning relying on culturally shared conventions
Denotation
The dictionary definition of a word
Dysphemism
A harsh/blunt term to express an idea, often used for humorous efect
Euphemism
A softened or socially acceptable way to express a potentially sensitive area
Field specific lexis
Vocabulary associated with a particular topic area
Hyponym
A word for a ‘type’ of something else, eg a ‘terrier’ for a ‘dog’
Idiom
A ‘stock’ or common phrase/ saying in a language
Initialism
An abbreviation consisting of initial letters pronounced separately (e.g. BBC ).
Lexeme
A word
Meronym
A word for a part of a longer whole, eg ‘wheel for ‘car’
Metaphor
A figurative, non-literal way of expressing something
Neologism
A new word in a language
Personification
Applying human characteristics to an inanimate object
Prototype
A ‘best fit’ example for a particular category eg. ‘car’ for ‘vehicle’
Slang
Low formality language, often inventive and particular to individuals or groups
Standard English
The generally accepted, prestigious form of language form of the language
Synonyms
Two or more words with similar meanings
Taboo
Words and phrases that are socially unaccpetable
Vulgarism
Low formality word or phrase, often from fields views as ‘distasteful’
Colloquialism
An informal word/phrase more likely to be used in the spoken mode than written
Bloke - a regular man or “guy”
