Word formation processes and proposals for the classification of formal neologisms

Abstract

This chapter approaches one of the most controversial topics concerning word formation and lexical creation: classification processes for lexical units according to the creation resources they are based on. The paper analyzes the lists of word formation mechanisms given by different authors and surveys the typologies proposed for the classification of new lexical units. On the one hand, it claims the lack of unanimity regarding word formation processes; and, on the other hand, it argues that the classification of newly created lexical units does not fit in any of the lists of word formation mechanisms that already existed; by contrast, there is a tendency to elaborate new proposals. The lack of agreement complicates the task of classifying words following the criteria of the creation method they are based on. Keywords: Word formation processes; classifications; neologisms