The suffix “-et” usually denotes a diminutive or smaller model of one thing. Think about “islet,” a small island, or “cornet,” a small horn. Quite a few phrases in English make the most of this suffix, usually derived from French. These vary from concrete objects like “bracelet” to extra summary ideas like “goal.”
This diminutive operate contributes considerably to the richness and precision of the English language. It permits for nuanced descriptions and the expression of delicate variations in dimension or scale. Traditionally, the suffix’s French origins mirror the numerous affect of French on the event of English vocabulary. Understanding the suffix’s which means can unlock a deeper appreciation for the etymology and interconnectedness of phrases.
This exploration serves as a place to begin for a broader dialogue of phrase formation and the impression of suffixes on which means. Additional investigation into particular examples can reveal fascinating etymological journeys and make clear the evolution of language. By analyzing the patterns and origins of suffixes like “-et,” one beneficial properties a better understanding of the English lexicon’s intricate construction.
1. Diminutive Operate
The suffix “-et” performs a big position in English morphology, primarily serving a diminutive operate. This implies it signifies smallness or a decreased type of the bottom phrase. Understanding this operate is essential to deciphering the which means of phrases ending in “-et” precisely.
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Measurement Discount
The most typical position of “-et” is to point a smaller model of one thing. For instance, a “booklet” is a small e-book, and a “statuette” is a small statue. This dimension discount might be literal, referring to bodily dimensions, or metaphorical, suggesting a lesser diploma or depth.
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Affection or Endearment
In some instances, the “-et” suffix may convey affection or endearment. Whereas much less widespread than the purely diminutive operate, this nuance might be noticed in phrases like “ringlet” (a small curl of hair) which regularly carries a connotation of youth or delicacy.
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French Affect
The “-et” diminutive is basically derived from French, reflecting the historic affect of French on English vocabulary. Many phrases ending in “-et” retain their French roots, each in spelling and pronunciation. This French connection usually provides a contact of class or sophistication to the phrases.
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Morphological Derivation
From a morphological perspective, the “-et” suffix acts as a derivational morpheme, creating new phrases from present ones. By including “-et” to a base phrase, the which means is modified to point a smaller or diminished model. This course of contributes to the richness and adaptability of the English lexicon.
The diminutive operate of “-et” is a key ingredient in understanding the nuanced meanings of phrases using this suffix. Recognizing this operate unlocks etymological connections, clarifies which means distinctions, and gives perception into the dynamic interaction of morphology and semantics inside the English language.
2. French Origin
The prevalence of the “-et” suffix in English owes a lot to the numerous affect of French on the language’s improvement, notably through the Norman French interval following the Norman Conquest of 1066. This historic linguistic trade resulted within the adoption of quite a few French phrases into English, many retaining their authentic spellings and pronunciations, together with the diminutive suffix “-et.” This suffix, already widespread in French, turned built-in into English morphology, contributing to the varied vary of phrases ending in “-et.” Examples like “cornet,” “bayonet,” and “cupboard” clearly exhibit this French connection, usually retaining meanings intently associated to their French counterparts.
Understanding the French origin of those phrases gives beneficial etymological insights. Recognizing the “-et” ending as a marker of potential French derivation can support in deciphering a phrase’s which means based mostly on its root and the suffix’s diminutive operate. This data additionally illuminates the historic layering of English vocabulary, illustrating how totally different languages have contributed to its richness and complexity. The “-et” suffix serves as a tangible linguistic hyperlink to the Norman French affect, reminding us of the historic forces shaping English. Think about the phrase “lancet,” a small, pointed surgical instrument; its French origin clarifies its connection to “lance,” highlighting the diminutive nature of the instrument.
In abstract, the French origin of many “-et” phrases is an important part in understanding their which means and appreciating the historic improvement of English. This etymological consciousness facilitates deeper lexical comprehension and highlights the interconnectedness of languages. Recognizing the French affect on English vocabulary permits for a extra nuanced appreciation of the language’s wealthy historical past and complicated construction. Additional exploration of particular examples can reveal the persevering with evolution of those phrases and their adaptation inside the English lexicon.
3. Noun Prevalence
Examination reveals a robust tendency for phrases ending in “-et” to operate as nouns. This prevalence of nouns inside this particular group of phrases warrants additional investigation to know the underlying linguistic patterns and historic influences contributing to this phenomenon. Exploring this connection gives insights into the morphological and semantic traits of those phrases and their roles inside the broader English lexicon.
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Concrete Objects
A good portion of nouns ending in “-et” denotes concrete, tangible objects. Examples embrace “bracelet,” “cornet,” “packet,” and “blanket.” This prevalence of concrete nouns suggests a connection between the diminutive suffix and the bodily world, the place dimension distinctions are readily obvious and infrequently related. The suffix permits for exact labeling of smaller variations of widespread objects.
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Summary Ideas
Whereas much less widespread than concrete nouns, the “-et” suffix additionally seems in phrases representing summary ideas. “Goal,” “aspect,” and “subnet” are examples of such utilization. In these instances, the diminutive operate can counsel a particular side, subdivision, or a extra centered occasion of the broader idea. This utility demonstrates the suffix’s versatility past purely bodily descriptions.
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French Affect on Noun Formation
The historic affect of French on English morphology performs a big position within the prevalence of “-et” nouns. Many of those phrases have been adopted straight from French, the place the “-et” diminutive is often used to type nouns. This historic borrowing contributed considerably to the variety of “-et” nouns in English, solidifying the affiliation between the suffix and the noun class.
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Morphological and Semantic Implications
The prevalence of “-et” nouns has implications for each morphological evaluation and semantic interpretation. Morphologically, it highlights the productive nature of the “-et” suffix in forming new nouns. Semantically, it reinforces the affiliation of “-et” with diminutiveness, even when utilized to summary ideas. Understanding this connection permits for extra correct and nuanced interpretations of those phrases inside their respective contexts.
The sturdy affiliation between the “-et” suffix and the noun class gives beneficial insights into the construction and historic improvement of the English lexicon. The prevalence of nouns ending in “-et,” encompassing each concrete objects and summary ideas, displays the suffix’s versatility and the enduring affect of French on English phrase formation. Recognizing this sample strengthens lexical comprehension and facilitates a deeper appreciation for the intricate interaction of morphology, semantics, and historic linguistics inside the English language.
4. Suffix “-et”
The suffix “-et” types the core of phrases ending in “-et,” serving because the defining ingredient that shapes their which means and grammatical operate. This morphological part performs a vital position in creating a definite class of phrases primarily characterised by diminutiveness. The cause-and-effect relationship is simple: the addition of “-et” to a base phrase ends in a brand new time period signifying a smaller model or a selected side of the unique idea. For instance, “leaflet” derives from “leaf,” indicating a smaller, particular person leaf usually half of a bigger assortment, comparable to in a booklet. Equally, “cupboard,” derived from “cabin,” initially denoted a smaller, personal room inside a bigger construction. Understanding the operate of “-et” is important for precisely deciphering the which means of those phrases. Its presence indicators a shift in scale or a deal with a particular aspect of the bottom phrase’s which means.
The sensible significance of recognizing “-et” extends past mere vocabulary acquisition. It gives a beneficial device for deciphering unfamiliar phrases and inferring their meanings based mostly on the foundation phrase and the established diminutive operate of the suffix. Think about the phrase “circlet.” Even with out prior information, one can infer its which means as a small circle by recognizing the “-et” suffix. This skill to infer which means from morphological elements strengthens lexical comprehension and facilitates extra environment friendly communication. Furthermore, understanding the operate of “-et” can illuminate the etymological origins and historic evolution of phrases. Recognizing its French origin usually factors in the direction of a phrase’s historic trajectory and its adoption into English vocabulary. This consciousness deepens appreciation for the dynamic nature of language and the interconnectedness of various linguistic methods.
In conclusion, the suffix “-et” serves as an integral part of phrases ending in “-et.” Its presence signifies diminutiveness, guides which means interpretation, and gives clues to etymological origins. Whereas challenges could come up in instances the place the diminutive operate is much less apparent or metaphorical, understanding the final rules of “-et” utilization tremendously enhances one’s skill to navigate the complexities of the English lexicon. Recognizing the suffix’s contribution to phrase formation gives a vital basis for broader linguistic evaluation and strengthens general communication abilities. Additional exploration of particular examples can deepen understanding of the nuances and exceptions inside this fascinating nook of English morphology.
5. Measurement Implication
The suffix “-et” carries a robust implication of decreased dimension, a defining attribute of phrases ending in “-et.” This dimension implication, whereas usually literal, may manifest metaphorically, including a layer of nuance to the which means. Exploring this aspect of “-et” phrases gives a deeper understanding of their semantic vary and the delicate methods they convey which means.
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Literal Diminution
In lots of instances, “-et” denotes a bodily smaller model of the bottom phrase. A “booklet” is smaller than a e-book; a “ringlet” is smaller than a hoop. This literal diminishment is a core operate of the suffix and is quickly obvious in quite a few examples. It permits for exact distinctions in dimension, contributing to descriptive accuracy.
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Metaphorical Discount
Past literal dimension, “-et” may suggest a discount in scale, scope, or depth. A “snippet” of knowledge is a small, choose piece. A “aspect” of an issue is a particular, restricted side. This metaphorical use extends the suffix’s operate past the purely bodily, including layers of which means to summary ideas.
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Contextual Interpretation
The exact diploma of dimension discount implied by “-et” is commonly context-dependent. Whereas “islet” invariably signifies a small island, the scale distinction between a “cabin” and a “cupboard” can range. Contextual clues are essential for correct interpretation, highlighting the dynamic interaction between phrase and surrounding textual content.
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Evolution of That means
Over time, the scale implication of “-et” can shift or weaken. “Cigarette,” initially a small cigar, now refers to a definite product no matter dimension relative to cigars. This semantic evolution underscores the dynamic nature of language and the significance of historic consciousness in phrase interpretation.
The scale implication inherent within the suffix “-et” performs a vital position in shaping the which means of phrases that put it to use. From literal diminishment to metaphorical discount and contextual interpretation, the suffix’s contribution to which means is critical. Recognizing this dimension implication gives a beneficial key to understanding the nuances of “-et” phrases and their operate inside the English lexicon. This understanding enriches comprehension and allows extra correct and nuanced communication, highlighting the complicated interaction between morphology, semantics, and context.
6. Conceptual Abstraction
Whereas the “-et” suffix incessantly denotes bodily diminutiveness, its utility extends to conceptual abstraction, including a layer of complexity to its operate. This connection between a suffix usually related to concrete dimension discount and summary ideas deserves exploration. The “-et” suffix, in these situations, signifies not a smaller bodily entity however relatively a particular side, a nuanced perspective, or a refined subset of a broader summary notion. This abstraction represents a vital side of the suffix’s versatility and its contribution to the richness of the English language.
Think about the time period “goal.” Whereas originating from a bodily objecta protect or mark to purpose atits fashionable utilization usually refers to summary targets, goals, or audiences. The “-et” suffix right here subtly refines the idea, suggesting a particular focus or level of purpose inside a bigger area. Equally, “aspect” denotes a selected side or aspect of a multifaceted subject, not a smaller bodily part. This utility demonstrates the suffix’s skill to delineate particular parts inside complicated, summary concepts. Additional examples embrace “subnet,” a smaller, outlined community inside a bigger community system, and “quartet,” representing a particular grouping of 4, not essentially smaller than different groupings. These examples illustrate the suffix’s capability so as to add precision and nuance to summary ideas.
Understanding the appliance of “-et” to conceptual abstraction enhances comprehension and communication. Recognizing this nuanced operate permits for extra correct interpretation of those phrases and their particular meanings inside totally different contexts. The flexibility to discern between literal and summary functions of “-et” is essential for navigating the complexities of the English lexicon. Whereas the connection between diminutiveness and abstraction could current interpretative challenges, acknowledging this conceptual extension of the suffix strengthens general language comprehension. This understanding gives a extra complete appreciation for the flexibility and subtlety of the “-et” suffix and its vital contribution to the richness and expressiveness of the English language. Additional investigation into the etymology of particular person phrases can present deeper insights into the evolution of those conceptual abstractions and the dynamic interaction between language and thought.
7. Etymological Clues
Etymological investigation affords beneficial insights into the which means and historic improvement of phrases ending in “-et.” Exploring the origins of those phrases usually reveals connections to French, offering clues to their diminutive operate and semantic evolution. This etymological consciousness enhances comprehension and permits for a deeper appreciation of the intricate historical past embedded inside the English lexicon.
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French Origins
Many phrases ending in “-et” derive straight from French, retaining the suffix’s authentic diminutive operate. “Cornet,” from the Previous French “cornet,” which means “small horn,” exemplifies this direct lineage. Recognizing the French origin of those phrases usually clarifies their which means and gives a historic context for his or her utilization. This French connection highlights the numerous affect of French on English vocabulary improvement.
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Evolution of That means
Etymological analysis can illuminate how the which means of “-et” phrases has advanced over time. “Cupboard,” initially denoting a small, personal room, has broadened to embody varied sorts of storage furnishings. Tracing these semantic shifts gives a deeper understanding of the dynamic nature of language and the way phrase meanings adapt to altering contexts and cultural influences.
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Diminutive Consistency
Regardless of semantic shifts, etymological clues usually reinforce the core diminutive operate of “-et.” Even in instances the place the scale implication has weakened, tracing the phrase’s origin can reveal its preliminary connection to smallness. This consistency underscores the enduring affect of the suffix’s authentic which means, whilst particular person phrases evolve. For instance, the phrase “brunette,” from the French phrase for “little brown-haired lady,” demonstrates a shift from a diminutive and gender-specific noun towards a extra normal descriptive adjective whereas nonetheless sustaining a connection to paint.
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Borrowing and Adaptation
The presence of “-et” phrases in English demonstrates the borrowing and adaptation of morphological parts from different languages. The profitable integration of “-et” into English phrase formation highlights the dynamic interaction between languages and the continuing evolution of vocabulary. The suffix’s adoption displays the historic interconnectedness of English and French, showcasing the wealthy tapestry of linguistic influences which have formed fashionable English.
Etymological clues present beneficial insights into the historical past, which means, and evolution of phrases ending in “-et.” Recognizing the French origins, tracing semantic shifts, and appreciating the constant diminutive operate inherent within the suffix enriches comprehension and deepens appreciation for the complicated historical past of the English language. This exploration of etymological connections strengthens lexical consciousness and facilitates a extra nuanced understanding of the dynamic interaction between language, historical past, and tradition.
8. Morphological Evaluation
Morphological evaluation gives a vital framework for understanding phrases ending in “-et.” This methodology of linguistic evaluation focuses on the interior construction of phrases, analyzing how morphemesthe smallest items of meaningcombine to create complicated phrases. Within the case of “-et” phrases, the suffix “-et” itself constitutes a key morpheme, constantly carrying a diminutive connotation. This understanding of the suffix’s operate permits for predictable interpretations of recent or unfamiliar phrases containing it. For instance, encountering the phrase “circlet” for the primary time, morphological evaluation permits one to deduce its which means as “small circle” based mostly on the recognized which means of “circle” and the diminutive operate of “-et.” This strategy of decomposition and interpretation is central to morphological evaluation and its utility to “-et” phrases.
The sensible significance of this analytical method extends past easy vocabulary acquisition. Morphological evaluation allows a deeper understanding of the relationships between phrases, revealing connections that may in any other case stay obscured. Recognizing the shared suffix “-et” in phrases like “leaflet,” “booklet,” and “pamphlet” reveals a standard semantic thread of diminutiveness associated to printed supplies. This consciousness not solely clarifies particular person phrase meanings but additionally illuminates broader patterns inside the lexicon. Moreover, morphological evaluation can support in understanding semantic change over time. By analyzing the morphemic elements of phrases like “cigarette” (initially a small cigar), one beneficial properties insights into the evolution of which means and the way a phrase’s present utilization can diverge from its etymological roots. This historic perspective is important for a nuanced understanding of language and its dynamic nature.
In abstract, morphological evaluation gives a robust device for understanding phrases ending in “-et.” By specializing in the morpheme “-et” and its constant diminutive operate, this analytical method permits for the interpretation of unfamiliar phrases, reveals connections between associated phrases, and illuminates the historic evolution of which means. Whereas challenges could come up with phrases the place the “-et” suffix has undergone semantic shift or metaphorical extension, morphological evaluation stays a vital framework for navigating the complexities of those phrases and appreciating their place inside the broader construction of the English language. This understanding strengthens lexical comprehension and facilitates simpler communication, highlighting the important position of morphological evaluation in linguistic inquiry.
9. Lexical Selection
The suffix “-et” contributes considerably to lexical selection inside the English language. Whereas seemingly a minor morphological ingredient, its widespread use generates a various vary of phrases, enriching descriptive capabilities and permitting for nuanced expression. This contribution to lexical selection stems from the suffix’s skill to create new phrases by attaching to present root phrases, modifying their which means to point diminutiveness or a particular side. The ensuing array of “-et” phrases expands the accessible vocabulary for describing objects, ideas, and actions with better precision.
Think about the variability inside a single semantic area: printed supplies. The phrases “booklet,” “leaflet,” and “pamphlet,” all using the “-et” suffix, provide distinct but associated meanings. This differentiation permits for exact communication concerning particular sorts of printed matter, enriching the descriptive lexicon inside this specific space. Equally, the “-et” suffix permits for nuanced distinctions in dimension and scale throughout varied domains, from “islet” (a small island) to “circlet” (a small circle) to “droplet” (a small drop). These examples illustrate how “-et” enhances lexical selection, offering a wider vary of phrases for particular ideas. This capability for nuanced expression permits for extra correct and detailed communication throughout various contexts, from scientific discourse to on a regular basis dialog.
The sensible significance of understanding the “-et” suffix’s contribution to lexical selection lies in enhanced communication and comprehension. Recognizing the delicate distinctions between “-et” phrases and their base phrases permits for extra correct interpretation of texts and simpler expression of concepts. Whereas challenges could come up in instances of semantic shift or metaphorical utilization, a normal consciousness of the suffix’s diminutive operate serves as a beneficial device for navigating the complexities of English vocabulary. Moreover, understanding this connection gives insights into the dynamic nature of language and the continuing processes of phrase formation and semantic evolution. The suffix “-et,” regardless of its obvious simplicity, performs a big position in enriching the English language and facilitating extra nuanced and expressive communication. Its contribution to lexical selection underscores the significance of morphological evaluation in understanding the complete vary and depth of the lexicon.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning phrases ending in “-et,” offering concise and informative responses to make clear potential misunderstandings and improve general comprehension.
Query 1: Is the “-et” suffix all the time indicative of smaller dimension?
Whereas primarily signifying diminutiveness, the “-et” suffix can generally point out a particular side or variation relatively than strictly smaller dimension, notably with summary ideas. Context is essential for correct interpretation.
Query 2: Are all phrases ending in “-et” of French origin?
Whereas many derive from French, not all phrases ending in “-et” have French origins. Some could have advanced independently or been borrowed from different languages, although French affect is distinguished on this group.
Query 3: How does one decide the exact which means of an unfamiliar “-et” phrase?
Combining etymological analysis, morphological evaluation, and contextual clues gives essentially the most dependable method to deciphering the which means of unfamiliar “-et” phrases. Consulting a dictionary may present beneficial insights.
Query 4: Does the “-et” suffix seem in different elements of speech apart from nouns?
Whereas predominantly present in nouns, the “-et” suffix can often seem in different elements of speech, comparable to adjectives (brunette). Nonetheless, noun utilization stays essentially the most prevalent.
Query 5: How does the metaphorical use of “-et” impression which means?
Metaphorical functions of “-et” prolong its semantic vary past literal dimension, signifying features, subdivisions, or levels of depth associated to summary ideas. This metaphorical utilization contributes to the suffix’s versatility.
Query 6: Why is knowing the “-et” suffix necessary for language comprehension?
Understanding the “-et” suffix enhances vocabulary, facilitates correct interpretation of nuanced meanings, and gives insights into the historic improvement of the English language. This data strengthens general communication abilities and lexical consciousness.
A complete understanding of the “-et” suffix, encompassing its diminutive operate, French origins, and potential for conceptual abstraction, considerably enhances lexical comprehension and facilitates nuanced communication. Continued exploration of particular examples additional strengthens this understanding.
Additional sections will delve into particular examples of phrases ending in “-et” as an example these ideas in apply and supply a extra concrete understanding of their utilization and evolution inside the English language.
Sensible Purposes and Concerns
Efficient utilization of vocabulary enriched by the “-et” suffix requires consciousness of potential ambiguities and sensible methods for clear communication. The next suggestions provide steerage for navigating the nuances of those phrases and maximizing their expressive potential.
Tip 1: Contextual Consciousness: That means can shift relying on context. Think about “locket” in a jewellery context, it is a small decorative case; in a historic context, it’d discuss with a small lock. Cautious consideration to surrounding phrases clarifies which means.
Tip 2: Etymological Exploration: Investigating a phrase’s etymology can illuminate its core which means and evolution. Understanding the French origins of many “-et” phrases gives insights into their diminutive nature.
Tip 3: Morphological Disambiguation: Decomposing phrases into their constituent morphemes aids comprehension. Recognizing the “-et” suffix indicators potential diminutiveness, aiding interpretation.
Tip 4: Precision in Description: Leverage the particular meanings of “-et” phrases for descriptive accuracy. Selecting “booklet” as an alternative of “e-book” when referring to a smaller publication enhances readability.
Tip 5: Consciousness of Semantic Shifts: Acknowledge that phrase meanings evolve. “Cigarette,” initially a small cigar, now stands as a definite entity. Historic consciousness informs correct utilization.
Tip 6: Sensitivity to Metaphorical Utilization: The “-et” suffix can convey metaphorical diminishment, as in “snippet” representing a small piece of knowledge. Discerning literal from metaphorical utilization is essential.
Tip 7: Dictionary Session: When unsure, seek the advice of a dictionary to substantiate exact which means and utilization. Dictionaries provide beneficial insights into etymology, definitions, and contextual examples.
Constant utility of those methods strengthens comprehension, promotes correct interpretation, and enhances expressive capabilities. These practices facilitate simpler communication and unlock the complete potential of the “-et” suffix inside the English lexicon.
The next conclusion synthesizes the important thing data introduced concerning phrases ending in “-et” and affords last reflections on their significance inside the English language.
Conclusion
Exploration of phrases using the “-et” suffix reveals a multifaceted linguistic panorama. The suffix’s diminutive operate, predominantly derived from French, shapes which means throughout a various vary of phrases, from concrete objects like “bracelet” to summary ideas like “goal.” Evaluation reveals nuanced functions extending past easy dimension discount, encompassing metaphorical makes use of and specialised terminology inside varied fields. Etymological investigation illuminates the historic evolution and semantic shifts these phrases have undergone, enriching understanding of their present utilization. Morphological evaluation reinforces the suffix’s position as a key morpheme contributing to lexical selection and precision inside the English language. The prevalence of nouns amongst phrases ending in “-et” additional highlights the suffix’s impression on grammatical operate.
Continued investigation into particular person phrase histories and semantic nuances guarantees deeper appreciation for the complexity and richness embedded inside this seemingly easy suffix. Understanding the rules governing using “-et” empowers efficient communication and unlocks a deeper appreciation for the historic and morphological forces shaping the English lexicon. This data gives a basis for additional exploration of phrase formation and the intricate interaction between language, historical past, and which means.
