Exocítica

Exocítica is a term used in linguistics to describe a word or phrase borrowed from a foreign language that retains a noticeable foreign character or sound, often to the point where it might be unfamiliar to native speakers of the borrowing language or marked as unusual. Unlike a fully assimilated loanword, an exocítica is not yet fully integrated into the phonological and morphological system of the host language. This can manifest in various ways, such as the pronunciation of sounds that do not exist in the borrowing language, unusual stress patterns, or grammatical structures that are not typical.

The concept of exocítica highlights the process of language contact and borrowing. As languages interact, they exchange vocabulary, but the degree of assimilation varies. Some borrowings are quickly adapted, losing their foreign markers, while others remain more visibly foreign. Exocíticas can serve various purposes, such as to denote specific cultural items, to add flavor or prestige, or simply because a direct equivalent does not readily exist. Over time, many exocíticas may become fully assimilated, losing their foreign characteristics and becoming indistinguishable from native words. However, some may persist in their exocitic form for extended periods, especially if they refer to concepts or objects with strong ties to their original culture. The study of exocíticas offers insights into language change, cultural influence, and the dynamics of linguistic adaptation.