Linguistic research continues to explore the intricate relationship between semantics and morphology in word formation, particularly in languages such as Urdu. Urdu, an Indo-Aryan language, provides a valuable context for studying compounding, a process that allows for the creation of nuanced meanings by integrating native roots with influences from Persian and Arabic.
This study utilizes Lieber's (2004) Lexical Semantic Framework (LSF) to examine Urdu compounds. LSF deconstructs lexical items, emphasizing their interaction across morphological boundaries. Key principles include decomposition, lexical capacity, cross-categorical applicability, and a focus on lexeme meaning.
The LSF addresses phenomena like polysemy, zero derivation, and form-meaning mismatches within word structures, offering insights into compounding as a morphological process. By combining LSF with Distributional Semantics (DS) and Conceptual Dependency Theory (CDT), the study assesses Urdu compounding through semantic coherence and conceptual integration.
LSF offers a comprehensive approach to understanding meaning construction in word formation. Its decompositional nature allows for a detailed analysis of semantic composition, acknowledging the semantic potential of lexical entries beyond mere reference. The framework analyzes multiple categories, transcending traditional boundaries between word classes, enhancing comprehension of complex terms by focusing on basic lexical units.