Derivation

Abstract

Dutch complex words are formed by means of suffixation, prefixation, and conversion (change of category without morphological marking). The productivity of a word formation process is subject to various types of restriction, partially having to do with the layer of the lexicon (native or non-native). There are also word formation patterns that are unproductive. The grammar has to specify them nevertheless because these patterns still have a motivating function and reduce the arbitrariness of form-meaning correspondences. Special forms of word coining are blending, clipping, and the formation of acronyms.