Identifying criteria for distinguishing polysemy in linguistic terms

This study explores the complex semantic phenomenon of polysemy in linguistic terms, focusing on the differentiation between polysemy and related phenomena such as synonymy, homonymy, polyaspectuality, and multifunctionality. Employing criteria outlined by scholars like Apresean and Kuzmenko, the research categorizes the various forms of polysemy – chain, radial, and mixed – and examines how these forms are influenced by cultural and contextual shifts within language use. By analyzing the semantic relationships between a term’s primary and secondary meanings, the study establishes criteria crucial for understanding the functionality and evolution of language. These insights reveal the structured and nuanced ways that meanings are interconnected within and across languages, contributing to a deeper understanding of linguistic complexity.