The concept of synonymy – the existence of different words with the same meaning-has been widely debated in linguistic theory. While traditional definitions suggest that synonyms are interchangeable without any change in meaning, deeper linguistic analysis challenges this notion. This article explores the different dimensions of synonymy, including absolute and near-synonymy, contextual meaning variations, and the impact of sociolinguistic and cognitive factors on word choice. We deal with the reality of synonyms in languages in general, and examine Turkish and Kazakh regarding synonyms as a concept in particular. Using a comparative analysis, we try to find out whether true synonyms can exist, or whether semantic, stylistic or pragmatic differences distinguish between synonymic words. Turkish and Kazakh examples illustrate how cultural context, usage frequency and speaker intent influence synonym usage. The article questions the validity of the term "synonym" as a strict linguistic category and suggests that what are often labeled as synonyms may, in fact, reveal deeper layers of meaning and linguistic variation.

KARABULUT F.

Ph.D, docent, Celal Bayar University, Manisa, Turkey

E-mail: ferhatkarabulut@yahoo.com, https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5039-9580

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