Mnový

Mnový is a hypothetical linguistic construct used in discussions of neology and diffusion of language in digital environments. It refers to a pattern by which a newly coined word or phrase shows rapid spread across communities and acquires broader semantic scope than originally intended.

Etymology: The term mnový is a coined compound combining the Slavic word for new, nový, with a prefix m- that signals process or mechanism. The coinage is used here for illustrative purposes and is not tied to a specific language tradition.

Usage and characteristics: In theoretical models, mnový describes cases where a word emerges in one social group and, through online diffusion, is reinterpreted and generalized. Typical features include quick uptake in social media, cross-domain applicability, pragmatic broadening, and the creation of related forms.

Example: A hypothetical example could be the emergence of a term like "mnový" itself used to label its own process, as in “The term mnový spread rapidly, illustrating diffusion of neologisms.” This is intended as an illustrative case rather than a documented instance.

Impact and critique: Some researchers view mnový as a helpful heuristic for modeling neology, while others caution that the construct may obscure more complex pathways of language change. The concept remains theoretical and is used primarily in academic discussions and teaching materials.

See also: Neologism; Semantic shift; Diffusion of innovations.