Simplicity and economic use of language elements

Abstract

The article presents, through a selection of examples, some relations between the simplicity of language elements and their economic use. In linguistic studies, economic use is usually understood too narrowly and is limited to the removal of exceptions and irregular constructions and the use of shorter forms. Also, simplicity of linguistic expressions is sometimes perceived too superficially. Factors such as simplicity of articulation, euphony or the pursuit of accuracy in terms of information being conveyed (semantic simplicity) are not always taken into account. Too hastily, economic use is identified with simplicity of expression. It can be done in some situations, yet not always. The law of linguistic economy (the use of shorter forms and structures) often gives way to a tendency for simplicity (the use of forms that are easier to apply). It is necessary to distinguish the simplicity and economic use of the broadcaster from the simplicity and economics of the recipient. What is simple and economic for the sender does not necessarily have to be simple and economic for the addressee. Considerations on economic use and simplicity of linguistic measures take too little account of the contribution of different factors: the language style; the function a text is expected to have; the intentions of the sender; the addressee to whom a text is addressed; the communication situation, etc.