Changes in Word Meaning

1.Types of changes

1)Extension

The extension of meaning, the opposite of restriction, means the widening of a word’s sense until it covers much more than what it originally conveyed.

2)Narrowing

Narrowing of meaning, also called restriction of meaning, means that a word of wide meaning acquires a narrower, specialised sense which is applicable to only one of the objects it previously denoted.

3)Elevation

When the meaning of a word narrows toward a more favourable meaning it is called elevation

4)Degradation

Degradation means the falling of word meaning into disrepute, for one reason or another. Words once respectable or neutral may shift to a less respectable, or even derogatory meaning.

2. Causes of changes

1)Extra-linguistic factors

(1)historical reason

(2)class reason

(3)psychological reason

2)Linguistic factors

(1)shortening

(2)borrowing

(3)analogy