Lexical Change Key Terms Flashcards
1
Q
What is a descriptivist?
A
Examine language use synchronically. No judgement or negative attitude is imposed on language change, examination of language as it is and how it is used
2
Q
Prescriptivism
A
The notion that language should be fixed, prescribing to a set standard of rules for language usage, with any shift away from these rules or standards being seen as incorrect
3
Q
Neosemy
A
Process where a new meaning develops from an existing word
4
Q
Polysemy
A
Words acquire many possible meanings, which coexist with the original e.g. ‘milking it’
5
Q
How do descriptivists examine language use
A
Synchronically
6
Q
Diachronic change
A
The historic development of language
