Abstract
The present article sets out to examine the dictionary definition entries concerning the concept of climate. Both Polish and English dictionaries are included, as well as historical and contemporary entries. The data is composed of thirteen dictionary entries, published in the last two hundred years. The material is examined qualitatively. The results are presented in the form of a table, where one may find all the aspects of meanings identified in the definitions. A supplement data extracted from the English historical corpus is also provided. The results have revealed that semantic change did occur in both the Polish and the English language. However, the change is more visible in the Polish dictionaries. The subsidiary differences could influence the way the word is employed in certain contexts and thus, differentiate the employment of the same concept in the two languages. Nevertheless, the contemporary definitions are almost identical in both languages, in contrast to the historical ones.
Highlights
IntroductionOften, various conceptions, seemingly similar or even synonymous, might differ depending on the language, which is employed
One may observe that, often, various conceptions, seemingly similar or even synonymous, might differ depending on the language, which is employed
As far as Polish historical definitions are concerned, they are mainly focused on the concept of climate as a geographical construct that is used to denote areas of land
Summary
Often, various conceptions, seemingly similar or even synonymous, might differ depending on the language, which is employed. It is necessary to investigate the meaning associated with a given word, for instance, those in dictionary definitions. According to Milroy (1992) and Traugott and Trousdale (2013), the change can only be recognized as such, if there is evidence of its conventionalization, for example in a dictionary entry. Another claim made by Traugott (2017) is that newer meanings tend not to exclude the older ones because of the older generations still employ the original meaning of a given word
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
