Explanation
The change in part of speech without a visible derivational element. In the atlas, the term is not treated in isolation: it illustrates a category shift without visible material. This reveals the distinction enabled by the form and how it relates to related phenomena.
Example
the running, derived from to run
Counterexample
“Läufer” contains the visible derivational suffix -er.
Distinction
“Runner” contains the visible derivational suffix -er.
Effect on thought and perception
The term draws attention to category shifts without visible material. What previously appeared to be a uniform process becomes perceptible as a structured relationship.
Resonance
Resonance arises when conversion is not merely named but experienced as a movement between form, expectation, and effect.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Conversion“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-088-009. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-088-009The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.