英语词汇学（英文版）English Lexicology (IV).pptVIP

English lexicology (III) Contents 10. Changes in Meaning 11. American English Vocabulary is the most unstable element of a language as it is undergoing constant changes both in form and content. Comparatively, the content is even more unstable than the form. This chapter will deal with the major patterns that changes in meaning follow and the causes of changes. 10.1 Types of changes Extension / Generalization lady Economy Orientation influence holidays slogan Scene 10.1 Types of changes Narrowing / Specialization Deer girl garage liquor instant reply 10.1 Types of changes Elevation / Amelioration Sth. Low, humble, unpleasantsth. Noble, agreeable, pleasant Marshall Shrewd Angel Minister 10.1 Types of changes Degradation / Degeneration Silly Villain, boor, churl Cunning 10.1 Types of changes Degradation / Degeneration Intensifiers terrific, fantastic, marvelous, splendid, magnificent, wonderful, superb, tremendous, overpowering, fabulous…… horrible, outrageous, awful, dreadful…. Weakening of meaning of intensifiers 10.1 Types of changes Transference Subjectiveness and objectiveness He is doubtful of success. The future looks doubtful. …an honourable gentleman …an honourable invitation 10.1 Types of changes Transference subjectiveness objectiveness hateful: a hateful job, a hateful crime painful:a painful experience, a painful task pompous language/style/manner a pompous man solemn music/oath/duty a solemn judge 10.1 Types of changes Transference Subjectiveness and objectiveness depend on the collocation a suspicious character/truth/condition a suspicious look/glance/attitude a dubious answer a dubious look 10.1 Types of changes Transference 10.2 Causes of changes Social development Pen Manuscript Straw Atom Computer 10.2 Causes of changes Class reason Language is just like a mirror, reflecting everything that exists in human society. Naturally, it records the speech and attitude of different social class. Villain, clown, churl Demo