An Introduction to English Lexicology

Lexicology is the study of words, including their meanings, relationships, origins, and structure. It combines derivational morphology with lexical semantics and explores the history, meanings, and structure of words, how they are collected in dictionaries, and how they are stored in our minds. The book focuses on description and puzzles and provides examples, exercises, discussion questions, suggestions for further reading, and a glossary.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 192 pages
Publication date: 30 November 2021
Publisher: Edinburgh University Press

Lexicology is a fascinating field that delves into the world of words, exploring their meanings, relationships, origins, and structures. It combines the study of derivational morphology with lexical semantics to provide a comprehensive understanding of language. This textbook takes readers on a journey through the history, meanings, and structure of words, examining how they are collected in dictionaries and stored in our minds. It goes beyond mere morphological analysis, delving into the spelling and pronunciation of words, and the challenges they present. Throughout the book, readers are encouraged to engage with descriptive explanations, thought-provoking exercises, discussion questions, suggestions for further reading, and a comprehensive glossary. This accessible and lively guide is designed to introduce students to the linguistic study of English by focusing on the essence of words.

Words are the building blocks of language, carrying immense power and meaning. Lexicology, as a discipline, seeks to unravel the mysteries of words, their origins, structure, and usage. It combines the study of derivational morphology, which examines how words are formed, with lexical semantics, which explores their meanings. This textbook provides a comprehensive exploration of the world of words, covering various aspects such as history, meanings, structure, spelling, pronunciation, and more.

The history of words is a rich tapestry woven with cultural, social, and linguistic influences. Lexicology delves into the etymology of words, tracing their roots back to ancient civilizations and exploring the ways in which they have evolved over time. It sheds light on the processes of word formation, such as prefixation, suffixation, and compounding, and how these processes have shaped the language we speak today.

Meanings are the core essence of words, and lexicology explores the diverse range of meanings they can convey. It examines the semantic fields of words, such as nouns, verbs, adjectives, and adverbs, and how they interact with each other to create complex meanings. Lexicology also explores the nuances of word usage, such as connotation, denotation, and figurative language, and how these can affect the interpretation of a sentence.

The structure of words is a crucial aspect of lexicology. It examines the arrangement of letters and syllables in words, as well as the patterns and conventions that govern word formation. Derivational morphology plays a significant role in this analysis, as it helps to understand the relationships between words and their derivational forms.

Spelling and pronunciation are also critical components of lexicology. They are the means by which words are conveyed to others, and their correct usage is essential for effective communication. Lexicology explores the rules.

Weight: 280g
Dimension: 138 x 215 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781474477901