Abstract
This chapter discusses the role of social factors in semantic change. While dominant theories of semantic change involving function words focus on language-internal motivations, traditional accounts of semantic change affecting lexical material emphasize the role of sociocultural factors. This chapter provides an overview of the main accounts of semantic change and examines their treatment of social factors. Then it discusses the role of internal and external factors in language change and their application in examples from the history of Spanish. Finally, it analyzes ways in which social factors can be integrated into studies of semantic change that combine language-internal mechanisms with the study of variation.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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.
