POLYSEMY IN SOMATISMS AND THE NORMS OF THEIR MANIFESTATION

Abstract. This thesis analyzes the phenomenon of polysemy in somatisms, the specific features of its occurrence, and the principal norms governing semantic transfer. It explores the semantic potential of somatic vocabulary in expressing a person’s physical condition, psychological experiences, character traits, and social relationships. Particular attention is paid to the role of such semantic processes as metaphor, metonymy, functional and associative meaning transfer in the development of polysemy in somatisms. The study also examines the lexical and contextual meanings of somatic units, the linguistic factors underlying the formation of polysemy, and the norms governing their manifestation in speech. The findings are significant for identifying the semantic development of somatisms, their national and cultural characteristics, and the expressive potential of language.