英語における逆形成について

This study examines the underlying system of BF (Back-Formation) in English. After the synchronic relevance of BF is proved, we present three hypotheses: first, BF as a backward application of a word formation rule, second, BF as a process based on a lexical redundancy rule, and third, BF as a type of conversion. Examining each hypothesis in light of the formal and semantic properties of BF leads us to opt for the third hypothesis, according to which the verb lase_V is formed as follows: laser_N is converted into laser_V, from which the category-marker eris deleted. The deletion is treated as a supplementary operation devoid of derivational significance.