Lexical Blends in English Discourse: A Constructional and Information-Structural Analysis

Abstract

This study examines lexical blends as morphologically complex constructions whose discursive positioning reveals principles at the morphology-pragmatics interface. Integrating constructionist approaches and work on information structure, the analysis suggests that blends may exhibit systematic patterns in two constructional schemas: focus-heavy configurations, where blends occupy focal positions that heighten salience and evaluative force, and pseudo-topicalization constructions, where an apparent topic frames a focal punchline. A core claim is that evaluative-attitudinal meaning becomes integrated into morphological form, constraining interpretation and strengthening discourse commitment. Using Reddit data, the study compares blends with non-blended alternatives: while these convey comparable propositional content, blends enhance focal salience, axiological commitment, and communicative impact. A qualitative, example-driven analysis suggests that morphological condensation into a single lexical unit, with semantic and evaluative content, functions as a discourse-organizing principle that enhances authority, facilitates social recognition, and generates portable stance markers. The study reconceptualizes word-formation and discourse organization as mutually constitutive processes.