English Morphology and Lexicology Shaoguangqing@gmail.com www.windofspring.weebly.com

Chapter 6 Sense relations and Semantic field 6.1 Polysemy Two approaches to polysemy; two processes of development 6.2 Homonymy Types Origins Homonyms vs. Polysemants Rhetoric features of homonyms 6.3 Synonymy Definition Sources discrimination

6.1 Polysemy

6.1 Polysemy Monosemy (monosemic words) Polysemy

6.1.1 Two approaches 1. diachronic approach From one meaning to many meanings through historical development Primary meaning Derived meanings Examples: face harvest

6.1.1 Two approaches 2. synchronic approach The coexistence of various meanings of the same word at a certain historical period of time Central meaning Derived meanings Examples: gay

6.1.2 Two processes of development polysemy radiation (radial polysemy) Concatenation (chain polysemy) The various possible meanings are linked to each other via a chain of meanings. Here, meaning A is not directly related to C, but via meaning B it is. One meaning is at the “center” of it all, the other meanings radiate outwards. Meanings are all directly related to one another.

6.2 Homonymy

6.2 Homonymy

Homonyms vs. Polysemants

Homonyms vs. Polysemants

rhetorical features of homonyms "Caesar salad" (Scissor salad) in an Italian accent: Customer: "I'd like a Caesar salad." Italian waiter: "Sir! Are you sure you want the Scissor salad? You'll cut your mouth!"

6.3 Synonymy

6.3 Synonymy

dinghy

yacht

punt

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