Phonetics And Word Formation Questions Medium
Clipping is a process of word formation in which a word is shortened by removing one or more syllables or sounds from its original form. This is done to create a new word that is shorter and more convenient to use in everyday language. Clipped words are often informal or colloquial in nature and are commonly used in various contexts, such as slang, jargon, or abbreviations.
There are different types of clipping, including back-clipping, fore-clipping, and middle-clipping. Back-clipping involves removing the end of a word, while fore-clipping involves removing the beginning. Middle-clipping, as the name suggests, involves removing a part of the word from the middle.
Clipped words often retain their original meaning or a modified version of it. For example, "advertisement" is commonly clipped to "ad," "television" to "TV," "examination" to "exam," and "telephone" to "phone." These clipped forms are widely used and easily recognizable in everyday language.
Clipping is a productive word formation process, meaning that new clipped words can be created as needed. It allows for the creation of concise and efficient vocabulary, especially in informal or specialized contexts. However, it is important to note that not all words can be clipped, and the acceptability and usage of clipped forms may vary across different regions and communities.
In conclusion, clipping is a word formation process that involves shortening a word by removing one or more syllables or sounds. It is a common practice in language to create new words that are more convenient and efficient for everyday use.