Explanation
Semantic change in which an expression becomes restricted to a narrower range of meanings. Shows how shared usage selects an increasingly specific path from a wider field of possibilities.
Example
Meat once referred more broadly to food and later chiefly to animal flesh.
Counterexample
A mere label without the described formal or conceptual movement.
Distinction
Distinguish from Bedeutungserweiterung; the neighbouring concept remains connected as a crossway.
Effect on thought and perception
Shows how shared usage selects an increasingly specific path from a wider field of possibilities.
Resonance
Shows how shared usage selects an increasingly specific path from a wider field of possibilities.
Cite this entry
Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Semantic narrowing“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-DEP1-0002. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-DEP1-0002The address remains stable; editorial content may evolve. A verified modification date per entry is not yet available. Include your access date for precise references.