Word Formation Processes

Derivation

Combining a base with an affix to create a new word, often changing the syntactic category.

• Example: $V + -able o ADJ$ (read $ o$ readable)

Processes

• Zero Derivation: Changing the category without adding an affix (e.g., staple (N) $ o$ staple (V)).
• Allomorphy: When a single morpheme has multiple forms (e.g., plural -s pronounced as [s] in cats but [z] in dogs).
• Stem Change: internal change (e.g., run $ o$ ran).
• Suprasegmental Change: Change in stress (e.g., PERmit (N) vs. perMIT (V)).

Compositionality

The property whereby the meaning of a complex structure is a function of the meanings of its parts and their arrangement.