Semantics of Fast-Motion Verbs in English

This study investigates a set of verbs in the English language that denote rapid movement where the semantic feature ‘rapidity’ is implicitly encoded at the level of metalinguistic lexicographic description. Semantic characteristics structuring this lexico-semantic group are identified through analysis. The data for investigation were extracted from the Oxford Advanced Learner's Dictionary. A total of 143 lexical-semantic variants of verbs with an implicit component of ‘rapidity’ were analyzed. Componential analysis results show verb groups classified by parameters such as directionality, causativity, suddenness, controllability, acoustic accompaniment, etc. It was found that the semantic characteristic 'rapidity' integrates into the structure of these lexical units and coexists with other features. Furthermore, it has been demonstrated that the semantics of fast motion can be complicated by additional nuances like trajectory, kinetic organization type, goal orientation, and auditory effects associated with the action. The research proves that the linguistic category of speed exhibits internal differentiation and reflects multifaceted perception of motion. Ultimately, conclusions highlight the high variability and multidimensionality of the semantics of fast-motion verbs in English.