12. Why is the suffix "-phobic" often used to mean fear, even though its literal meaning is "aversion" or hatred?

The use of the suffix "-phobic" to indicate fear rather than just aversion or hatred has evolved through common usage and linguistic adaptation over time. While the literal meaning of "-phobic" is indeed related to aversion or hatred, its colloquial usage has broadened to encompass a wider range of negative attitudes, including fear.

Language is dynamic, and word meanings can shift based on how they are commonly understood and used in everyday communication. In the case of "-phobic," its association with fear has become dominant due to its frequent use in contexts related to fear or anxiety, particularly in psychological and social contexts.

For instance, terms like "claustrophobic" (fear of confined spaces) and "arachnophobic" (fear of spiders) are commonly used to describe specific fears rather than mere aversions or hatreds. As these terms became more prevalent in everyday language, their meanings became associated more strongly with fear.

Ultimately, the meaning of words and suffixes is shaped by how people use and understand them, and the evolution of language reflects the evolving needs and perspectives of its speakers.

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