At Start Language School by Tymur Levitin, we don’t just teach languages — we explore the very DNA of words. Comparative lexicology allows us to see how languages connect, differ, and evolve, revealing the unique identity of each tongue.
What Is Comparative Lexicology?
Comparative lexicology is the study of vocabulary systems across two or more languages, focusing on similarities, differences, and relationships.
It answers questions like:
- Why does one word in English have several possible translations in Ukrainian or German?
- How do cultural concepts shape vocabulary?
- Why do synonyms in one language never match exactly in another?
Why It Matters for Language Learners
If you understand how vocabulary works between languages, you can:
- Avoid false friends — words that look similar but mean something different.
- Choose the right synonym for your tone, audience, and purpose.
- Understand why direct translation often fails — and what to do instead.
For example, English “home” is not the same as Ukrainian “дім” or German “Haus”. Each carries its own emotional and cultural weight.
Beyond Dictionaries: Words as Living Entities
In Levitin Language School, we show students that vocabulary is not just a list of words. It is a living network where:
- Words change meaning over time.
- Context can completely shift interpretation.
- Borrowings from other languages bring both richness and confusion.
Practical Applications
When learning English, German, Ukrainian, or any other language, comparative lexicology helps you:
- Build richer vocabulary — understanding subtle shades of meaning.
- Think in the target language — instead of constantly translating.
- Improve writing and speaking — by choosing words that truly fit the message.
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🖋️ Author: Tymur Levitin — founder, director, and senior teacher at Start Language School by Tymur Levitin (Levitin Language School)
📚 Rubric: Author’s Column by Tymur Levitin
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