Question

Order these words from one which possesses wider polysemy to the one which possesses the narrowest polysemy: Go/green/mother/federation

Answer 1

Ответ:

Mother > Federation > Go > Green

The word "mother" has the widest polysemy, as it can refer to a female parent, as well as to a term of address for a respected older woman or to describe something that is the source or origin of something else.

"Federation" has a fairly broad range of meanings, including a political union of states, a sports organization, and a type of starship in science fiction.

"Go" has a few different meanings, such as to move or travel from one place to another, or to function or work properly.

"Green" has the narrowest polysemy, as its primary meaning is a color on the spectrum between blue and yellow, although it can also refer to environmentalism or immaturity.

Answer 2

In terms of polysemy, which is the ability of a word to have multiple meanings, the order from one which possesses wider polysemy to the one which possesses the narrowest polysemy would be as follows:

1. Go: This word has a wide range of meanings and can be used in various contexts. It can refer to physical movement, emotional states, changes in condition or status, and can also be used as an auxiliary verb, among other things. The word "go" has numerous different meanings and uses, making it a word with wide polysemy.

2. Green: This word primarily refers to the color, but it also has various additional meanings. It can represent environmental consciousness or sustainability, describe someone who is new or inexperienced, or refer to an area covered in grass or vegetation. While "green" has multiple meanings, it is not as versatile as "go" and therefore possesses a narrower polysemy.

3. Mother: The word "mother" typically refers to a female parent, but it can also have metaphorical meanings. It can be used to describe the origin or source of something or to symbolize nurturing and care. While "mother" has some figurative uses, its overall range of meanings is more limited compared to "go" and "green."

4. Federation: This word has a relatively narrow polysemy compared to the previous examples. It primarily refers to a group or organization formed by the joining together of smaller groups or states. While "federation" may have some additional technical or specific uses, its overall range of meanings is more confined than "go," "green," or "mother."

In summary, when considering polysemy, the order of words from one with wider polysemy to the one with the narrowest polysemy would be: go, green, mother, federation.