Lexical-Semantic Aspects of Word Knowledge: A Comparative Study of English and Uzbek Polysemy

This article explores the concept of word knowledge with a focus on polysemy, analyzing multiple word meanings from a linguistic perspective. Using the frameworks of Zimmerman (2009) and Schmitt (2000), it examines lexical-semantic characteristics in English and Uzbek. The study highlights how English relies on metaphorical and idiomatic extensions, whereas Uzbek employs morphological modifications to distinguish meanings. Cognitive and typological differences in polysemy processing between the two languages are also discussed. The research emphasizes the role of linguistic structure in shaping word meanings and semantic evolution. Findings contribute to a broader understanding of lexical ambiguity and its implications for linguistic theory.