MORPHOLOGICAL DERIVATION Meaning and
Definition
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Morphological derivation refers to the process of creating new words by adding affixes (prefixes or suffixes) to existing base words or stems in a language. It is a type of word formation that is governed by the rules and conventions of morphology, a branch of linguistics that studies the internal structure and construction of words.
In morphological derivation, the addition of affixes alters the form and meaning of the base word, resulting in the creation of a new word with a different grammatical or semantic function. For example, in English, the suffix "-ly" can be attached to an adjective to form an adverb, such as "quick" becoming "quickly." Similarly, the prefix "un-" can be added to an adjective to create its opposite, as in "happy" becoming "unhappy."
Morphological derivation plays a crucial role in expanding a language's vocabulary, allowing speakers to create new words to describe novel concepts, express different shades of meaning, or adapt borrowed words from other languages. It is a productive process, meaning that speakers can apply these morphological rules to generate an unlimited number of new words.
While morphological derivation can be systematic and follow regular patterns, it can also involve irregular or idiosyncratic formations. Additionally, the affixes used in morphological derivation can vary across languages and reflect the grammatical and semantic features unique to each language.
Etymology of MORPHOLOGICAL DERIVATION
The term "morphological derivation" is a combination of two words: "morphological" and "derivation".
1. "Morphological" pertains to morphology, which is the branch of linguistics that deals with the structure and formation of words. It originates from the Greek word "morphē" meaning "form" or "shape" and the English suffix "-logy" indicating "the study of". Therefore, "morphological" can be understood as the study or analysis of the form or structure of words.
2. "Derivation" refers to the process of forming a new word from an existing word or root, usually by adding affixes (prefixes or suffixes). It comes from the Latin word "derivare" meaning "to lead or draw off". Hence, "derivation" implies the act of deriving or forming a new word.
