POLYSEMY
Charles François (2004). POLYSEMY, International Encyclopedia of Systems and Cybernetics, 2(2): 2583.
| Collection | International Encyclopedia of Systems and Cybernetics |
|---|---|
| Year | 2004 |
| Vol. (num.) | 2(2) |
| ID | ◀ 2583 ▶ |
| Object type | General information, Epistemology, ontology or semantics |
The multiplicity of shades of meaning that any word may take within the semantic space of a language.
Words, just like electrons, atoms, molecules, cells and individuals, acquire a different positional value within different contexts. This is a very important feature, which relativizes and at the same time enhances the value of languages in conveying meanings.
Unfortunately, polysemy is frequently used to distort meanings and confuse receivers. Many senders are even themselves unaware of the dubious meanings they do transmit.
Polysemy plays also an important role in the evolution of languages because it favours progressive reductions, extensions and shifts of meanings.