demprunter

Demprunter is a neologism used in sociolinguistics to describe the process or aim of reversing lexical borrowing in a language. It encompasses strategies such as ceasing to adopt loanwords, replacing borrowed terms with native equivalents, or adapting borrowed forms to local phonology and semantics. The term is not widely standardized and is mainly used in theoretical discussions about language policy and reclamation.

Etymology: The word combines the prefix de- with emprunter (to borrow) in French, echoing emprunt (loanword). Its exact scope and status vary by author, and it remains informal in most usages.

Usage: In language-planning discussions, demprunter may refer to explicit efforts to reduce borrowing, create neologisms, or restore traditional terms in education, media, and public life. It is often discussed in post-colonial or minority-language contexts where communities seek to reduce foreign influence or reassert linguistic autonomy.

Examples: There are few large-scale, widely cited cases; most references are theoretical or appear in small-scale studies. The concept is sometimes discussed alongside calques, lexical purism, or language reclamation, and may be applied differently across languages and communities.

Critique: Critics argue that demprunter can hinder communication and place burdens on speakers, especially in rapidly evolving technical fields. Clear criteria are needed to evaluate success, and questions remain about balancing demprunt with practicality and openness to legitimate external terminology.

See also: loanword, borrowing, calque, language policy, lexical purism, language reclamation.