Spatio-Temporal Semantics of Latin Prefixes in Decoding Neologisms
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 21780013 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Oksana Koshchii (0000-0001-7764-6684, Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Kyiv, Ukraine), Оксана Кощій (Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, corresponding author) |
| Year | 2026 |
| Issue | 40 |
| Pages | 59-65 |
| Publication date | 2026-06-01 |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Bulletin of Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv Literary Studies Linguistics Folklore Studies (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1728-2659 • E-ISSN: 2709-8494 |
| Publisher | Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv (PUBLISHER • UA) |
| DOI | 10.17721/1728-2659.2026.40.8 |
| OpenAlex | W7163367081 |
| Language | EN |
| References cited | 14 |
Background. Digitalization and globalization processes lead to the active involvement of the international lexical fund, necessitating a reconceptualization of the role of Latin elements within the structure of borrowings. In this context, the focus is placed on Latin formants that function as an "interlingua" and ensure semantic stability amidst information overload. The relevance of the study is driven by the need to explore the algorithms that enable native speakers to structure and interpret the meanings of space and time in new lexemes. The purpose of the research is to provide a theoretical substantiation and a comprehensive analysis of the cognitive mechanisms involved in decoding neologisms through the actualization of the spatio-temporal semantics of Latin prefixes as operators of fundamental image-schemas. Methods. A comprehensive methodological approach was applied, including descriptive, etymological, structural-semantic, componential, and distributive methods, alongside cognitive-discursive and conceptual-metaphorical analysis to explain the mechanisms of transforming spatial images into abstract concepts. Results. It is proven that Latin prefixes function as autonomous cognitive operator-modifiers that establish mental templates for interpreting new concepts. The decoding algorithm is based on the model of compositional meaning derivation: identifying the prefix as a semantic "anchor," activating its conceptual base, and subsequent synthesis with the root. It was established that the locative semantics of prefixes organizes digital and social reality through categories of boundaries; vertical semantics transforms into markers of hierarchy or intensity; and vector semantics records the dynamics of ontological changes. Temporal prefixes, through metaphorization, become chronological markers of preventiveness, reflection, cyclicity, and retrospection. Special attention is paid to hybridization as a strategic mechanism for adapting borrowings, ensuring rapid intuitive reading of meanings. Conclusions. The research demonstrates the evolution of Latin prefixes from purely morphological units to fundamental cognitive operators. Hybridization processes confirm their integration into the national linguistic system as flexible tools for conceptualizing a new reality. The transformation of primary spatial semantics into temporal and axiological markers allows the language to economically and accurately record complex social changes, turning the Latin heritage into an organic tool for modern communication
Discourse Analysis and Cultural Communication · Language, Communication, and Linguistic Studies · Linguistics, Language Diversity, and Identity
| Highly cited | No |
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