Elision Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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elision
[ɪˈlɪʒən ]
Definitions
in linguistics
The omission of a sound or syllable in speech, typically as a result of rapid speech or informal conversation.
Synonyms
abbreviation, deletion, omission.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| elision |
Elision is often used in linguistics to describe the omission of a sound or syllable when speaking. It typically occurs in casual or rapid speech to make words easier to say.
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| omission |
Omission means leaving something out either deliberately or accidentally. It is often used in formal writing, law, and conversation to discuss what is excluded or forgotten.
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| deletion |
Deletion refers to the act of removing or omitting something, often in the context of text, data, or genes. It is used in both everyday and technical language, sometimes carrying a neutral or negative connotation depending on the context.
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| abbreviation |
Abbreviation is a shortened form of a word or phrase used to save space or time. It is commonly used in writing, texting, and other forms of communication to simplify and quicken conversations.
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Examples of usage
- The elision of the 'e' in 'gonna' is common in informal English.
- Elision is often used in poetry to maintain a specific meter.
in music
The blending or slurring of one note into the next, producing a smooth, connected sound.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| elision |
Used in linguistics to describe the omission of a sound or syllable when speaking. It can also refer to the act of leaving out certain details or parts of something more broadly.
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| blend |
Commonly used to describe the act of mixing two or more things together smoothly and harmoniously. This word is versatile and can be applied to contexts ranging from cooking to social interactions.
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| link |
Typically used to describe a physical or metaphorical connection between two or more things. Often used in the context of technology and hyperlinks on the internet, but it can also be used more generally.
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| connect |
Used to describe the action of joining or linking two or more entities. It can refer to both physical connections and more abstract, social connections.
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Examples of usage
- The pianist demonstrated excellent elision between the notes in the musical piece.
- Elision is an important technique in legato playing.
in grammar
The omission of a vowel or syllable at the beginning or end of a word when two words are run together.
Synonyms
compression, contraction, shortening.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| elision |
This word is often used in linguistics and literature to describe the omission of a sound or syllable when speaking. It's commonly seen in poetry and song lyrics where certain sounds are dropped for rhythm and meter.
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| contraction |
This is most commonly used in grammar to describe the shortened form of a word or group of words by omission of certain letters or sounds. Contractions are usually noted with an apostrophe.
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| shortening |
This word refers to the act of making something shorter in general, whether it is time, length, or written text. It's a broader term compared to 'contraction' or 'elision'.
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| compression |
This term is more technical and is used in various fields such as computer science, physics, and material science to refer to reducing size, volume, or data. It does not specifically refer to spoken or written language.
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Examples of usage
- The elision of the 'e' in 'an apple' when spoken quickly.
- Elision can sometimes lead to changes in pronunciation over time.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Linguistics
- Elision is common in spoken language, where words like 'going to' become 'gonna' in casual conversation.
- Languages like Spanish and French often use elision, such as dropping vowels in contractions, which helps maintain rhythm in speech.
- In the study of phonetics, elision can affect the flow and ease of language, making it easier for speakers to communicate.
Pop Culture
- In music and lyrics, artists often use elision to create catchy phrases or rhymes, such as rap or hip-hop, where words get shortened.
- TV shows and movies frequently showcase characters using elision in dialogue to convey a casual or relatable tone.
- Popular songs often incorporate elision, such as saying 'I'm gonna' instead of 'I am going to,' making lyrics quicker and more rhythmic.
Psychology
- Studies have shown that listeners can often understand elided words easily, indicating our brains are adept at filling in missing sounds.
- Elision plays a role in cognitive processing as our minds can predict missing information based on context, which simplifies communication.
- This phenomenon is also linked to social interactions, where familiarity with a group leads to more frequent use of elided forms.
Literature
- In poetry, elision can be a stylistic device, helping to maintain meter while allowing for creative expression.
- Famous poets, like John Milton, utilized elision to emphasize certain words and maintain the rhythm of their verses.
- Contemporary literature reflects elision, especially in dialogue, to mimic realistic speech patterns and portray character personalities.
Origin of 'elision'
Main points about word origin
- The term 'elision' comes from the Latin word 'elidere,' which means 'to strike out' or 'to omit.'
- It entered the English language in the early 17th century, often used in poetry and rhetoric.
- In linguistic terms, it typically refers to the omission of sounds in speech or writing.
The word 'elision' traces its origins back to the Latin word 'elisio', meaning a striking out or omission. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of elision has been studied and applied in various fields such as linguistics, music, and grammar. Over time, it has become a common term used to describe the omission or blending of sounds or syllables for various purposes.