英语词汇学zhao_Meanings.ppt

Loss of old meanings obsolete: there is no evidence of use since 1755. 过时的 archaic: old and no longer used. 古旧的 Word Old Meaning undertaker entrepreneur doctor teacher Figurative use of words Semantic Changes from the Literal Use of words to Their Figurative Use 1. Metaphor We know that words are used in two ways: literally and figuratively. When used literally, they have their natural and usual meaning. When used figuratively, they have a suggested meaning. ! A simile is a figure of speech which makes a comparison between two unlike elements, having at least one point of resemblance in appearance, quality, action or effect. A metaphor, like a simile, also makes a comparison between two unlike elements, but unlike a simile, this comparison is implied rather than stated. Metaphor? There are three major groups of metaphors according to function and character: A. Anthropomorphic metaphors B. Animal metaphors C. Synaesthetic metaphors A. Anthropomorphic metaphors Many inanimate objects are compared to the parts of the human body. the eye of a needle 针眼 the eye of a potato马铃薯的芽眼 the eye of the hurricane 风眼 the eye of a flower 花心 the eye of a peacock’s tail孔雀翎斑 the eye of the revolution 革命中心 参见p.32 for More Examples B. Animal metaphors A great many inanimate objects, including various instruments, machines and parts of machines are called after an animal. Cat-o’-nine-tails; 九尾鞭；香蒲 Cat-ice: thin ice unsupported by water 薄冰 Catmint or catnip 猫薄荷 Catlap: slops, tea, etc. 稀薄饮料 Another large group of animal names can be transferred into words indicating persons. An ass: a stupid foolish person A pig:a dirty, greedy or ill-mannered person A mouse: a person, esp. A woman, who is quiet and timid A goose: a silly person, esp. female A cat: a nasty person A rat: a low worthless disloyal man A lion: a famous and important person A fox: a person who deceives others by means of clever tricks A tiger: a person like such an animal in fierceness, courage, etc. An owl