Table of Contents
Introduction
Clipping in English grammar is a process that involves the reduction of polysyllabic words by omitting one or more syllables. This article delves into the intricacies of clipping in English grammar, exploring its types and providing illustrative examples.
What is clipping In English Grammar?
Clipping in English grammar refers to the reduction of a polysyllabic word by dropping a syllable or more from it. Clipping is also known as truncation or shortening.
Examples:
- spec = speculation
- vet = veteran
Types of clipping
There are three types of clipping:
Back clipping
In back clipping, the initial portion of the word is retained while the rest is discarded.
Examples:
- ad = advertisement
- cable = cablegram
- doc = doctor
- exam = examination
- fax = facsimile
- gas = gasoline
- gym = gymnastics, gymnasium
- memo = memorandum
- pub = public house
- pop = popular music
Fore-clipping
Fore-clipping preserves the final part of the word:
Examples:
- chute = parachute
- coon = raccoon
- gator = alligator
- phone = telephone
Middle clipping
Middle clipping involves keeping the central segment of the word:
Examples:
- flu = influenza
- fridge = refrigerator
Complex clipping
Complex Clipping
In complex clipping, words within compounds undergo abbreviation. Notably, in some instances, only one part of the compound remains intact, while in others, both halves are clipped.
Examples:
- cablegram for cable telegram
- op art for optical art
- cablegram= cable telegram
- op art = optical art
- org-man= organization man
- linocut = linoleum cut
- navicert = navigation certificate
The nuanced nature of complex clipping occasionally blurs the line between clipping and blending, as seen in formations like Navicert for navigation certificates.
When both halves are clipped, as in navicert, it becomes confusing whether to consider the resultant formation as clipping or as blending.
| Type of Clipping | Definition | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Back Clipping | Retaining the beginning, a twist in the tale | ad = advertisement, cable = cablegram, doc = doctor |
| Fore-Clipping | Preserving the grand finale, poetic endings | chute = parachute, coon = raccoon, gator = alligator |
| Middle Clipping | Capturing the enigmatic midpoint | flu = influenza, fridge = refrigerator |
| Complex Clipping | Compound magic, a dance of halves | cablegram = cable telegram, op art = optical art, org-man = organization man, linocut = linoleum cut, navicert = navigation certificate |
Conclusion
Clipping in English Grammar involves the reduction of polysyllabic words by omitting one or more syllables. Types of clipping like back clipping, fore-clipping, and middle clipping add a layer of efficiency and informality to our communication.
More about clipping in English grammar here.