Module 2: Lesson 1 - Lexis

Question 1

What is lexis?

Answer 1

“Lexis” is a single unit of language that has meaning and can be spoken or written.

It refers to all of the words that are in a particular language.

Question 2

How is lexis grouped?

Answer 2

It can be grouped in a smaller subset of words that are linked by a similar theme or topic, such as “sports lexis”, which is a group of lexis that refer to all words to do with sport.

Question 3

Lexis can be broken down into two types of words - name them.

Answer 3

Single words, known as “lexis” or “lexical items”, which are not related to other words used around them such as “dog”, “tree”, “happy”, “running”, “behind”.

Multiple grammatical words that are linked in some way, like “London bridge”, “parking lot”.

Question 4

Name 5 ways in which lexis can be grouped.

Answer 4

Word class: grammatical grouping

Formality: very formal, formal, neutral, informal, colloquial

High-frequency/Low frequency word: high - regulary see - me, you, ask, I / low - rarely see

Topic-related vocabulary: eg. vacation = you’d see beach, towel, sun, travel

Geographical / British or American English: pavement - sidewalk / bonnet - hood

Question 5

Name 3 aspects to consider in understanding a word.

Answer 5

Connotation

Form

Use

Question 6

Name 3 forms of connotation with an example.

Answer 6

Connotation:
- positive: slender / hot / beautiful
- neutral: thin / unusual / forceful
- negative: skinny / bizarre / controlling

Question 7

Name 4 forms to consider in the understanding of a word.

Answer 7

Grammar - using right tense.

Spelling - doesn’t always sound the way it’s spelled.

Pronunciation - be sure to explain if word isn’t phonetic.

Collocation - paired or grouped words - fast food.

Question 8

Name 2 things you should consider when it comes to the use of a word.

Answer 8

Style: academic, business, conversational

Register: formal, neutral, informal