What is an example of overextension in language development?

In language development, overextension occurs when a child uses a word too broadly, applying it to objects or concepts that are not the typical or correct referents for that word. When a child calls all four-legged animals "doggie," they are taking the word "dog"—which is specific to a certain type of animal—and using it to refer to a much larger category that includes animals like cats, horses, and cows. This shows that the child understands the common characteristic of having four legs but has not yet grasped the specific distinctions between different types of animals.

This phenomenon is a common part of language acquisition, where children exhibit a natural tendency to categorize and generalize their understanding based on limited experiences. Overextension is seen as a sign of developing language skills, as it reflects the child’s attempts to communicate and make sense of the world around them, even if their categorization is sometimes inaccurate.