Lexis and Discourse

Abstract

Indian English lexis is shown to be influenced considerably by British and American varieties. Some exclusively Indian words are explained as either residual entities from earlier British usage, or due to changes in meaning. Lexical items are categorised as either standard or non-standard. Words from Indian languages are categorised as either assimilated (into native varieties of English) or restricted (used only in Indian English). Lexical innovations in Indian English are seen more particularly in compounding, followed by affixation and to a lesser degree, other processes of word formation. Hybrid constructions are quite common in Indian English. Discourse features are derived from local influences and include some typical and unique forms of address, greetings and some specific structures to indicate politeness. Code-switching is often used as a device to convey a particular nuance of meaning.