Affectivity in Italian and Polish Language

Abstract

This paper is devoted to Polish and Italian derivational formatives, whose value in general language is defined in terms of diminution and augmentation. However, in specialist hunting terminology they happen to take on a series of different meanings. Two of these functions are highlighted: qualitative and objective (also known as “derivational”). These two functions are approached in a comparative perspective. A set of concrete examples, where both suffixes and alternations are combined, demonstrates the prevailing values of particular compound units. In Italian hunting terminology, qualitative function is demonstrated to be merely secondary. Conversely, objective function is given priority in its derived units. In spite of the fact that they maintain some degree of relatedness to words which constitute their derivational bases, Italian derived units mainly denote a separate species. Therefore, the objective function, whose role, rather than modifying, is to produce a genuine semantic change, becomes one of the basic methods of enriching Italian hunting lexis. By contrast, the alliance of suffixation and alternations in Polish hunting terminology serves mainly stylistic purposes and merely produces modifying effects.