English Language: How Does English Vocabulary Grow?

English Language: How does Vocabulary grow?

Abstract

The authors have attempted in this paper to explain how the English vocabulary evolves and grows. They have identified over a dozen ways in which this happens, some of the more common being imitation, new meanings, change of speech, affixation, portmanteau words etc. They have supplied a large number of examples to substantiate their points.

Key Words: English Language, Vocabulary, words, lexes, semantics, grammar, syntax

Introduction

Languages are dynamic in nature, to which English is no exception. Though changes are constant, those of an epoch making kind are as rare as blue roses. Considering this, English has clearly assumed the present form as regards grammar and syntax. However, lexes and semantics were two such components which were then, and are even now subject to mutation and extension (of meaning) respectively. The following

For example: ‘sink’, used as a noun (means a container which has faucets or taps to supply water, where water is drained through a drain plug to wash hands or utensils). This usage was developed from the verb form of it, which meant ‘go down below the surface of the liquid.’ iv) Addition of prefixes and suffixes:

Such a usage is becoming increasingly popular among those who want to simplify the language. English speakers generally add the most common affixes, change the forms of the root words and use them for example:

Ambi- : ambivert, ambivalent, ambidextrous (exceptions: ambience, ambition, ambiguous)

Il- : illogical, illegal, illegitimate (exceptions: illicit, illusion, illness)

Im-: immature, improper, immoral (exceptions: imminent, important, immediate)

In-: incorrigible, infallible, inappropriate (exceptions: innate, inert, insidious, integer)

Irr-: irresponsible, irrevocable, irreversible (exceptions: irritation, irrigation,