ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-133-050 · ATLAS 251

Haplology

The elision of one of two adjacent syllables that are identical or very similar.

Explanation

The omission of one of two adjacent, identical, or very similar syllables. Repetition creates an articulatory short-circuit: two similar phonetic units are condensed into one during speech.

Example

A predictable sequence of two very similar syllables is historically or spontaneously shortened by one syllable.

Counterexample

Not every word shortening constitutes haplology; the proximity of similar syllables is decisive.

Distinction

Distinction from dissimilation: Not every word shortening is haplology; the proximity of similar syllables is decisive.

Effect on thought and perception

Repetition creates an articulatory short-circuit: Two similar phonetic units are condensed into one during speech.

Resonance

Haplology makes a directed relationship perceptible: Repetition creates an articulatory short-circuit: Two similar phonetic units are condensed into one during speech.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Haplology“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-133-050. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-133-050

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-133-050

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