word-building (english) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

Noun

Phonetic Transcription

/wɜrd ˈbɪldɪŋ/

Meaning and Usage

"Word-building" refers to the process of creating new words or modifying existing ones through various linguistic techniques, such as affixation, compounding, or conversion. It is commonly used in linguistic and educational contexts where vocabulary development is emphasized. The term can be particularly relevant in language learning as well as in creative writing and poetry.

The term is somewhat specialized, hence it may not be used as frequently in everyday conversation but has increased relevance in written contexts such as educational material, linguistics discussions, and word games.

Example Sentences

1. Word-building exercises can enhance students' vocabulary skills.

2. (Exercícios de formação de palavras podem melhorar as habilidades de vocabulário dos alunos.)

3. The teacher explained the importance of word-building in learning new languages.

4. (O professor explicou a importância da formação de palavras no aprendizado de novas línguas.)

5. In creative writing, word-building can lead to the invention of unique terms.

6. (Na escrita criativa, a formação de palavras pode levar à invenção de termos únicos.)

Idiomatic Expressions

While "word-building" itself may not directly appear in many idiomatic expressions, it relates closely to expressions concerning language and vocabulary. Here are some idioms that emphasize the importance of language:

• Break the ice: To initiate conversation in a social setting.
• (Quebrar o gelo pode ajudar na formação de palavras entre pessoas novas.)

• (Breaking the ice can help in word-building among new people.)

• Bite the bullet: To endure a painful situation.

• (Às vezes, temos que morder a bala e tentar formação de palavras em momentos difíceis.)

• (Sometimes, we have to bite the bullet and try word-building in tough times.)

• Words of wisdom: Important pieces of advice or knowledge shared verbally.

• (Ela sempre compartilha palavras de sabedoria quando se trata de formação de palavras.)
• (She always shares words of wisdom when it comes to word-building.)

Etymology

The term "word-building" is derived from the combination of "word," which comes from Old English "word" (meaning a unit of language), and "building," which originates from the Old English "bylding," a gerund form of "byldan," meaning to construct or create. Therefore, "word-building" can be understood as the process of constructing or creating words.

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms - Lexical creation - Vocabulary development - Word formation

Antonyms - Word destruction (in the context of language decay) - Language simplification

This comprehensive overview provides insights into the term "word-building," its applications, and its significance in both linguistic and educational frameworks.