Bedeutungserweiterung Glossary of terms

Bedeutungserweiterung is the process by which the meaning of a word is broadened to include new concepts or uses.

Additional Information

  • Translations: semantic broadening, meaning extension, semantic generalization
  • Related concepts: Bedeutungswandel, Bedeutungsverengung, Bedeutungsverschiebung, Bedeutungsübertragung

Detailed Explanation

This linguistic phenomenon occurs when a word acquires new meanings in addition to its original sense, without necessarily losing its initial meaning. The broadening can happen through analogy, association, or cultural changes.

Often, this process is gradual and reflects the evolution of language in response to the communicative needs of its speakers.

Usage examples of "Bedeutungserweiterung"

📝 Some usage examples:
  1. Maus (mouse)Originally referred only to the animal, now it also means the computer device.
  2. VirusInitially referred only to biological agents, now it includes malicious computer programs.
  3. Surfen (to surf)Originally referred to the water sport, now it is also used for browsing the internet.
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