Factors Contributing to The Emergence of Lexical Units Exhibiting Homonymy in Hindi

Abstract

This study explores the main factors contributing to the emergence of lexical homonyms in Hindi, focusing on nouns and adjectives. It examines key mechanisms such as semantic divergence (the splitting of polysemy), phonetic convergence, word formation (including conversion), and borrowing.

Using etymological and comparative-historical methods, the research shows that most homonyms arise from semantic divergence, while other processes play a secondary role. The findings also highlight the importance of historical Indo-Aryan stages (Pali, Prakrit, and Apabhramsha) in this development.

The study concludes that homonyms, despite posing difficulties in distinguishing them from polysemy, significantly enrich the lexical system of Hindi.