Pregledni rad
https://doi.org/10.22210/jezik.2025.72.13
The Suffixes -ić, -āč in slang
Lidija Bogović
orcid.org/0009-0009-1785-1569
Sanja Vulić
Sažetak
This paper examines the derivational patterns underlying the formation of Croatian
slang expressions using the suffixes -ić and -āč. Specifically, eight derivational models
involving the suffix -ić and two involving the suffix -āč are identified. The analysis reveals
an ongoing process of linguistic impoverishment, as new, often redundant lexical items
are formed with identical or overlapping meanings. This trend is further exacerbated by
the shortening of lexical bases, often reducing multisyllabic words to monosyllabic stems
prior to affixation. As a result, slang increasingly excludes polysyllabic forms in favor of simplified structures. Moreover, there is a growing tendency to eliminate suffixes altogether,
favoring communication through isolated monosyllabic units. Such developments ultimately
contribute to the erosion of the structural integrity of the language system. While older
generations generally maintained a clear distinction between slang and standard language,
younger speakers increasingly lack proficiency in the standard variety. Consequently, slang
is gradually establishing itself as a dominant mode of communication, thereby accelerating
the degradation of linguistic norms.
Ključne riječi
slang; Croatian language; word formation, suffix -ić; suffix -āč
Hrčak ID:
335010
URI
Datum izdavanja:
1.4.2025.
Posjeta: 587 *