A brief history of the study of word-formation. Some basic concepts

Abstract

This paper is mainly an introduction to some of the terminology required in the study of word formation. Much of the terminology used will help place word-formation in its broader framework. The study of word-formation is expanding and researchers seem to be showing a greater willingness to blend various theoretical viewpoints when dealing with it: to blend synchrony and diachrony, morphology and phonology, syntax and semantics.