pragmatical etymology

Etymology:

• Pragma (Greek): "action, deed, work"
• Logos (Greek): "speech, reason"

Meaning:

Pragmatical etymology is an approach to etymology that emphasizes the practical and contextual aspects of word origin and usage. It focuses on the motivations and actions that have influenced the formation and evolution of words, rather than solely on their historical or linguistic roots.

Origin:

The term "pragmatical etymology" was coined in the early 20th century by the German linguist Leo Spitzer, who argued that language is not merely a system of grammatical rules but also a dynamic reflection of social and cultural practices.

Principles of Pragmatical Etymology:

Pragmatical etymology considers the following principles:

• Contextual Analysis: Examines the historical and cultural context in which words are used to understand their original meanings and motivations.
• Etymology of Action: Focuses on the actions and behaviors associated with words, rather than abstract concepts.
• Figurative Use: Acknowledges the importance of metaphor, metonymy, and other figurative devices in word formation.
• Sociological and Cognitive Factors: Considers the influence of social structures, cognitive processes, and cultural norms on language usage.

Applications:

Pragmatical etymology is used in various fields, including:

• Historical Linguistics: Provides insights into the evolution of language and culture.
• Cognitive Linguistics: Explores the relationship between language and thought.
• Sociolinguistics: Examines the social and cultural factors that influence word usage.
• Literary Analysis: Enhances understanding of literary texts by considering the pragmatic origins and connotations of words.

Examples:

• The word "dog" comes from the Proto-Germanic word "hundoz," which refers to a young dog. However, in English, "dog" can also refer to an adult male dog, suggesting that the meaning has evolved based on practical usage.
• The word "govern" comes from the Latin "gubernare," meaning "to steer a ship." This nautical origin reflects the idea of leadership as a form of navigation.
• The word "impossible" is derived from the Latin "inpossibilis," which means "not able." Pragmatically, "impossible" refers not only to absolute impossibility but also to perceived difficulty or improbability.

pragmatical relate terms

• pragmatic

  Etymology The word pragmatic derives from the Greek adjective pragmatikos which mean

• pragmatical

  Etymology Pragma Greek action deed work Logos Greek speech reason Meanin

• practical

  Practical Etymology Practical etymology involves studying the origin and development of w

• matter of fact

  Etymology The term matter of fact has its roots in the Latin phrase res facti Res

• prig

  Etymology The word prig is derived from the late Middle English word priggen meaning

• gorgeous

  Etymology The word gorgeous comes from the Old French word gorgeois which means ric

• raspberry

  Etymology The word raspberry is derived from Old English ræsbere Proto Germanic

• hermaphrodite

  Etymology The term hermaphrodite derives from Greek mythology Herma God of boundar

• disciple

  Etymology The word disciple comes from the Latin discipulus which means pupil or

• lieutenant

  Etymology The word lieutenant comes from the Old French word lieutenant which in tur

• filibuster

  Etymology The term filibuster is derived from the Spanish word filibustero which ori

• salad

  Etymology The word salad originates from the Old French word salade which in turn co

• represent

  Etymology The word etymology comes from the Greek words etymon meaning true sense