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What are some key differences in neologisms between Greek and Russian during the COVID-19 pandemic visualisation

What are some key differences in neologisms between Greek and Russian during the COVID-19 pandemic

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Key Differences in Neologisms Between Greek and Russian During the COVID-19 Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly influenced language, leading to the emergence of numerous neologisms in various languages, including Greek and Russian. A comparative analysis reveals both similarities and distinct characteristics in how these two languages have adapted to the pandemic lexicon.

****Common Features

Both Greek and Russian have seen a substantial influx of neologisms primarily derived from English, the dominant donor language for COVID-related vocabulary. This includes terms related to health protocols, social distancing, and new technologies that became prevalent during the pandemic.

****Specific Differences

  1. Word Formation and Adaptation:

    • In Greek, there has been a tendency towards reborrowing, where existing Greek words are adapted to fit new meanings or contexts. For instance, terms like “καραντίνα” (karantina) for “quarantine” have been widely used but may evolve in meaning or form as societal contexts change.
    • In contrast, Russian has incorporated many English terms directly without significant modification, such as “коронавирус” (koronavirus) and “локдаун” (lokdaun), reflecting a more straightforward borrowing approach without extensive morphological changes.

  2. Lexical Semantics:

    • The semantic fields of neologisms differ; for example, Greek neologisms often reflect cultural responses to the pandemic, emphasizing community and collective action (e.g., “αποστασιοποίηση” for “social distancing”). This reflects a cultural inclination towards communal values.
    • Russian neologisms frequently highlight individual experiences and state responses to the pandemic, such as “самоизоляция” (samoizolyatsiya) for “self-isolation,” which emphasizes personal responsibility.

  3. Cultural Context:

    • Greek neologisms tend to incorporate elements of local dialects or historical references, creating a unique blend that resonates with Greek identity. This can be seen in adaptations that might reference historical pandemics or local customs.
    • Russian neologisms are often influenced by governmental discourse and media narratives surrounding the pandemic, resulting in terminology that reflects state policies and public health messaging.

  4. Frequency of Use:

    • The frequency of certain neologisms also varies; for instance, terms related to health measures like masks or vaccines have seen different levels of integration into everyday language in each culture. In Greece, discussions around health measures often include references to traditional health practices alongside new terms.
    • In Russia, the rapid emergence of terms related to vaccination campaigns reflects a more immediate response to governmental health directives.

In summary, while both Greek and Russian have adapted their lexicons significantly during the COVID-19 pandemic by borrowing from English, their processes of neologization exhibit unique characteristics shaped by cultural context, word formation practices, and semantic focus. This highlights how global events can influence language while simultaneously allowing for local adaptations that reflect societal values and norms 1, 3.

References

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