ATLAS OF LANGUAGE

AT-SEM-W0118 · ATLAS 251

Family resemblance

A category structure held together by overlapping similarities rather than one feature shared by every member.

Explanation

A category structure held together by overlapping similarities rather than one feature shared by every member. It replaces a single essence with a network of partial recurrences.

Example

The concept becomes visible in use and can be followed as a movement of interpretation.

Counterexample

Family resemblance does not mean that anything can belong to the category.

Distinction

Family resemblance does not mean that anything can belong to the category.

Effect on thought and perception

It replaces a single essence with a network of partial recurrences.

Resonance

It replaces a single essence with a network of partial recurrences.

Cite this entry

Reich, Michael (Hrsg./ed.): „Family resemblance“. Atlas der Sprache, AT-SEM-W0118. ATLAS 251, data model 1.6.0. https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-SEM-W0118

https://atlasoflanguage.com/concept/AT-SEM-W0118

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