Near-Homonymy as a Factor in Language Change

Abstract

It is not generally recognized that near-homonymy may, like homonymy, be a causative factor in language change. Relevant instances are cited from the Germanic languages where near-homonymy has resulted in homonymy contrary to laws of regular sound change, thus proving the causative influence. It then becomes possible to accept similar causation in cases where near-homonymy is followed by loss of a word, as happens frequently with homonymy. Finally, implications of the effects of near-homonymy for the concept of distinctiveness in language are considered.