Definition

A basic linguistic element that represents a minimal feature, like the arrangement or emphasis of words in a phrase or sounds in a word.

Example

In linguistics, a taxeme can indicate how words are organized in a sentence.

Conversation

Have you ever heard of the term taxeme?

Yeah, it's about how we arrange sounds and words, right?

Exactly! It's fascinating how a simple taxeme can change meaning.

For sure, language is all about those little details!

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Taxeme is formed from "tax" (from Greek "taxis", meaning arrangement or order) and "-eme" (from Greek "-ēma", meaning a unit or element). The word refers to a unit of arrangement or order in a system of classification.

Memory Tip

Think of 'arrangement' ('tax') and 'unit' ('-eme') to remember that a taxeme is a unit of arrangement in a classification system.

Visually Confused Words