A seamantic analysis of extended meaning in Mlabri body-part terms

Abstract

This study focuses on the categorization of Mlabri body-part terms and their extended meaning through the analysis and explanation of Natural Semantic Metalanguage (NSM) and Frame Semantics. NSM functions as a simple language which is used for explaining complex concepts of extended meaning. It assists us to see the differences between basic meanings and extended ones while Frame Semantics supports the phenomenon of extended meaning in Mlabri body-part terms with regard to an overall picture via three aspects shape, function, and position/orientation. It proves that Mlabri speakers extend meaning of their body-part terms for calling items systematically and consistently.;