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LECTUTE 5
WORD GROUPS

1. Free word-groups vs. set expressions.
2. Different approaches to the classification of
phraseological units.
3. Ways of forming phraseologisms.

Key terms: free word-group,set expression, idiom, proverb,
phraseological combination, phraseological unities, one-summit
unit, two-summit and multi-summit unit, nominative
phraseological unit, nominative-communicative phraseological
unit, phraseological unit, communicative phraseological unit.

1. Free word-groups vs. set expressions.
Words put together to form lexical units make phrases or
word-groups. The degree of structural and semantic cohesion of
word-groups may vary. The component members in some word-
groups (e.g. man of wisdom, to take lessons, etc.) seem to possess
semantic and structural independence. Word-groups of this type
are defined as free phrases and are usually studied in syntax.
Some word-groups (e.g. by means of, to take place, etc.)
seem to be functionally and semantically inseparable. They are
usually described as set-phrases or phraseological units that are
non-motivated and cannot be freely made up in speech but are
reproduced as ready-made and are regarded as subject-matter of
phraseology. Phraseological units, or idioms, as they are called
by most western scholars, represent what can probably be
described as the most picturesque, colorful and expressive part of
the language's vocabulary. If synonyms can be figuratively
referred to as the tints and colours of the vocabulary, then
phraseology is a kind of picture gallery in which are collected
vivid and amusing sketches of the nation's customs, traditions and

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