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- Semantics refers to the study of the meaning of words or phrases. There are two types of semantics: logical and lexical. Logical semantics has to do with reference (the symbolic relationship between language and real-world objects) and implication (the relationship between two sentences). Lexical semantics has to do with word meaning.
- Semantic change refers to how the meanings of words change over time.
Broadening is a key example of semantic change and is a common process that tends to occur slowly over many years. A synonym of broadening is a semantic generalisation .
The opposite of broadening is semantic narrowing. This is when a word's meaning becomes less generalised over time.
What causes broadening?
Semantic broadening is caused by extra-linguistic factors. These are factors that occur outside the language itself. This type of semantic change occurs naturally and gradually over time.
Broadening typically occurs when a word is used more frequently. This will lead to its meaning becoming more encompassing of related definitions. This can be caused by factors such as socio-cultural and psychological reasons. Let's take a look at some examples.
Socio-cultural factors
Sociocultural factors can cause broadening. This happens when there is a major shift in a country's politics or social landscape. Revolutions, wars, and civil rights movements can all lead to broadening. A good example of this is how some words change their meaning following political coups.
Guy
The word 'guy' gained popularity in England following the failed Gunpowder Plot led by Guido 'Guy' Fawkes. Because of Fawkes' role in the plot, the word 'guy' came to mean a grotesque person. This developed over time until the word meant a man or boy.
Psychological Factors
Broadening can also happen when an item gains popularity. This is especially common in the twentieth century. When a brand becomes the leader in its field, sometimes its meaning will broaden to include the entire field itself. This will lead to the word meaning becoming broader in the minds of its consumers.
Fig. 1 - 'Kleenex' is an example of broadening.
Kleenex
The tissue brand, 'Kleenex' is often used interchangeably with the word 'tissue'. This is because, as the product became more popular, people began to link the two in their minds, leading to the broadening of the meaning of the word.
Examples of broadening
Business
Fig. 2 - 'Business' is an example of broadening.
The word 'business' was originally only used to mean someone was busy. However, over the years, the meaning of this word has changed. Now, the word's meaning has been broadened to refer to any type of work or job.
Cool
The modern use of the term 'cool' was originally used in jazz to refer to a specific style ('cool jazz')! As jazz grew in popularity, the word started to be applied more widely.
Demagogue
'Demagogue' derives from the Greek word 'demos', meaning 'people'. Historically it was used to describe a popular leader. However, this meaning broadened through the years to indicate a political leader who panders to the prejudices of the masses.
Broadening - key takeaways
- Semantics refers to the study of meaning.
- Semantic change refers to how the meaning of a word can change over time.
Broadening is when the meaning of a word becomes broader and more generalised over time.
Broadening is typically caused by extralinguistic factors.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Broadening
What is broadening?
Broadening is a type of semantic change where a word's meaning changes to become more generalised over time.
What are some example of broadening?
The term, 'cool', was originally used in jazz to refer to a specific style (cool jazz)! As jazz grew in popularity, 'cool' started to be used more widely!
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