词汇学 教案 chapter1 A General Survey of English Vocabulary.docVIP

Chapter 1 A General Survey of English Vocabulary I. Definition of Lexicology The term “lexicology” was originally formed with two Greek morphemes. The two morphemes are separately “lexicon” and “logie”. “Lexicon” refers to “word” and “logie” refers to “learning” or “the study of”. So “lexicology” means “the science of words”. Lexicology is a branch of linguistics concerned with the study of vocabulary of a given language. It deals with words, their origin, development, history, structure, meaning, and application. In short, it is the study of the signification and application of words (AITEL). Lexicology is a branch of linguistics, inquiring into the origins and meanings of words (WNWD). English Lexicology aims at investigating and studying the morphological structures of English words and word equivalents, their semantic structures, relations, historical development, formation, and usages. Morphology Lexicology Semantics II. Nature of Lexicology 1. Importance of Lexicology As we all know, language study involves the study of speech sounds, grammar, and vocabulary. But most of all, vocabulary has proved to be the most important and the most difficult one in the study of the language. English lexicology is a theoretically-oriented course. It is chiefly concerned with the basic theories of words in general and of English words in particular. However, it is a practical course as well, for in the discussion, we shall inevitably deal with rich stocks of words, idioms, and usages as well. Naturally, there will be a large quantity of practice involved. 2. Significance of Studying Lexicology The significance of the course in English lexicology for language learning is also evident. The study of lexicology will help the learners to enlarge their vocabulary and improve their ability to analyze and use English words effectively. For instance, the study of new words, synonyms, figures of speech, etc. will arouse the interest of the learners on the one