Lexical Relations

Lexical Relations

1. Synonym

   • Derives from Greek Syn + nymy = same + name
   • Strict Synonym
     • Two words that can be used interchangeably in all sentence context
   • 'Loose' synonym
     • Pair of words that can substitute for each other in a wide range of context but not necessarily absolutely
   • Partial Synonym
     • Part of the meaning of words is the same; there is overlap meaning but not complete identity of meaning
   • Can be differentiated in
     • Geographically
       • They belong to different dialects: different groups of speakers of the same langauge use different words to refer the same entity
     • Stylistically
       • By the style or level of formality (Climb / ascend)
     • Technicality
       • They can be used depending on a profession, trade, sports and hobbies due to the vocabulary that these activities have developed
     • Attitudinally
       • By its connotation. One member of pair of synonyms may have connotations not shared by the other member (Statesman / politician)
     • Sensitivity
       • A Euphenism is a word synonym used to cover taboos in some context (pass away / die)

2. Antonymy

   • Derives from Greek ant + nymy = opposite + name
   • Gradable
     • They are adjectives which do not refer to absolute qualities, but which may be subject to comparison or qualification (Happy / Sad)
   • Complementary
     • The denial of one member of the pair implies the assertion of the other member (Yes / No or True / False)
   • Converses o relational opposites
     • One member of the pair refers to the converse relation referred to by the other member (Front / Back or Husband / Wife)

3. Hyponymy

   • Derives from Greek hyp + nymy = under + name
   • It refers to the hierarchichal relationship between the meanings of lexemes, in which the meaning of one lexeme is included in the meaning of another lexeme
     • Purple = Crimson / Violet / Lavender

4. Lizzeth Díaz Julieta Mezeta Montse Santín Adriel Sosa

5. Jackson, H. (1991). Words and their Meaning. England: Longman.