Conversion in present-day English

Abstract: This article explores the linguistic phenomenon of conversion, or zero derivation, in present-day English. Conversion allows a word to shift from one grammatical category to another without morphological changes, demonstrating the language's inherent flexibility. The article examines the mechanisms behind noun-to-verb, verb-to-noun, adjective-to-verb, and adjective-to-noun conversions, providing contemporary examples for each type. The implications of conversion for linguistic economy, context-dependence, and the productivity of English are discussed. This study highlights how conversion contributes to the dynamic evolution of the English language, enhancing its expressive and communicative potential. Key Words: Conversion, Zero derivation, Linguistic flexibility, Noun-to-verb, Verb-to-noun, Adjective-to-verb, Adjective-to-noun, English language evolution, Morphology, Syntax.