Stylistic functions of neologisms in English language chick lit
Stylistic functions of neologisms in English language chick lit

Summary/Abstract: This article explores the stylistic functions of neologisms in English language chick lit, a genre characterized by its wit, relational focus, and female-centered narratives. While lexical innovation has been widely studied in science fiction and children’s literature, its role in popular women’s fiction remains underexplored. This study examines how neologisms in chick lit are deliberately formed to reflect character identity, enhance humor, dramatize emotional states, and critique consumerism and gender norms. Through qualitative textual analysis, it is shown that these coinages – ranging from playful blends to metalinguistic jokes – function as stylistic tools with strong social and expressive charge. The findings contribute to the broader study of lexical innovation in fiction by situating chick lit as a genre where language is actively shaped to reflect contemporary cultural dynamics.

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