Lexical Layers of Identity
Words, Meaning, and Culture in the Slavic Languages

Provides a systematic approach to lexical indicators of cultural identity using the material of Slavic languages.

Danko Šipka (Author)

9781108716963, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 28 October 2021

284 pages
22.9 x 15.2 x 1.6 cm, 0.416 kg

Focusing on Slavic languages, Danko Šipka provides a systematic approach to lexical indicators of cultural identity. In contrast to existing research, which focuses heavily on syntactic and phonological approaches, Šipka's approach is novel, more systematic and encompassing, and postulates three lexical layers of cultural identity: deep, exchange, and surface. The deep layer pertains to culture-specific words, divisions, and features that are generally not subject to change and intervention. The exchange layer includes lexical markers of cultural influences resulting from lexical borrowing, which situates the speakers into various cultural circles. This layer is subject to gradual changes and some limited level of intervention from linguistic elites is possible. Finally, the surface layer encompasses the processes and consequences of lexical planning. It is subject to abrupt changes and it is shaped in constant negotiation between linguistic elites and general body of speakers.

1. A conceptual map
2. Relevant research traditions
3. Research methodology
4. Lexeme-level culture-bound words, divisions, and features
5. Lexicon-based culture-bound field density
6. Stability and change
7. Cultural influences
8. Geographical contact
9. Inbound and outbound exchange
10. Lexical planning
11. Lexicographic traditions
12. Attitudes
Conclusion
13. Interaction between the layers
14. Main findings
15. An outlook.

Subject Areas: Lexicography [CFM], Semantics, discourse analysis, etc [CFG], Historical & comparative linguistics [CFF], Linguistics [CF]