Meaning & Definition of word "Diacritical"
Diacritical
/ˌdaɪəˈkrɪtɪkəl/
adjective:
- 1. Relating to or using diacritics, which are marks added to letters that indicate a change in pronunciation, stress, or meaning.
- Example: The diacritical marks in the word 'café' indicate that the 'e' is pronounced distinctly.
- 2. Serving to distinguish or differentiate.
- Example: Certain diacritical features in the language help to differentiate between similar-sounding words.
- 3. Indicating a particular point of view or interpretation.
- Example: The diacritical approach taken by the author sheds new light on the historical context of the events.
Etymology
●Derived from the Greek 'diakritikos', meaning 'able to distinguish'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
diacritical mark:
A symbol added to a letter to indicate a modification in pronunciation, stress, or meaning.
diacritical analysis:
An examination that focuses on distinctions or differences.
Related Words
diacritic:
A sign that is added to a letter to alter its pronunciation.
accent:
A mark used to indicate the proper pronunciation of a letter.