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Rule- and idiosyncratically derived denominal verbs: effects on language production and comprehension
1Department of Psychology, University of Pennsylvania, PA 19104-6196, USA. kelly@cattell.psych.upenn.edu
Memory & Cognition
|May 19, 1998
Summary
Rule-derived (RD) denominal verbs are easier to produce and understand than idiosyncratic (ID) denominal verbs. This distinction impacts language production and comprehension, as shown by four experiments on denominalizations.
Area of Science:
- Linguistics
- Cognitive Psychology
- Psycholinguistics
Background:
- Denominal verbs are formed from nouns.
- Two classes exist: rule-derived (RD) and idiosyncratic (ID).
- RD verbs have predictable meanings; ID verbs have diverse meanings.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of RD vs. ID denominal verbs on language production and comprehension.
- To examine how semantic predictability influences the use and understanding of denominalizations.
Main Methods:
- Four experiments were conducted.
- Experiments 1 & 2: Assessed production of RD and ID denominalizations.
- Experiments 3 & 4: Evaluated comprehension and interpretation of RD and ID denominalizations.
Main Results:
- Speakers preferentially selected and produced RD terms faster.
- RD denominal verbs were rated as easier to understand.
- RD denominal verbs showed more uniform interpretation among readers.
Conclusions:
- The distinction between RD and ID denominal verbs significantly affects language processing.
- Predictability of meaning in RD denominal verbs enhances production and comprehension.
- Experimental methods can effectively study creative language use and denominalization.