Grammar - Semantics Flashcards
The Relation of Meaning and Sign
The relation between meaning and sign is arbitrary, however, we know that certain signs are connected to particular meanings.
Semantic Domain
When lexemes are grouped with others that have interrelated meanings they belong to the same semantic domain.
Semantic Over-Generalisation
Extending the meaning of a word beyond its accepted use.
Inference
Drawing on existing knowledge to fill in the gaps between what is said and what is meant.
Etymology
The study of the origins of words and the historic development of their form and meaning.
Broadening
Semantic Change
A lexeme widens its meaning.
Narrowing
Semantic Change
The lexeme meaning becomes limited.
Shift
Semantic Change
When a lexeme takes on a new meaning and loses its original meaning.
Elevation
Semantic Change
When a lexeme takes on a more positive meaning.
Deterioration
Semantic Change
When a lexeme takes on a more negative meaning.
Figurative Language
Semantic Patterning
The writer intends for a meaning other than the exact meaning
Metaphor
Semantic Patterning
A figure of speech where 1 thing is to be another
Simile
Semantic Patterning
Figure of speech explicitly connecting 2 things through ‘like’ or ‘as’
Hyperbole
Semantic Patterning
Figure of speech in which exaggeration is used for emphasis or effect
Personification
Semantic Patterning
Metaphor that gives human features to non-human things
Animation
Semantic Patterning
Metaphor that gives life or movement to inanimate objects
Puns
Semantic Patterning
Metaphor that gives life or movement to inanimate objects
Lexical Ambiguity
Semantic Patterning
Occurs when it is not possible to determine the intended meaning of a lexeme
Oxymoron
Semantic Patterning
Combines 2 apparently contradictory words for special effect
Irony
Semantic Patterning
Combines 2 apparently contradictory words for special effect
Synonymy
Lexical Meaning
Sense relationship between lexemes that have similar meaning
Antonymy
Lexical Meaning
Sense relationship between lexemes that have contrasting meaning
Hyponymy
Lexical Meaning
The hierarchy that exists between words and how specific 1 lexeme is in relation to another
Idiom
Lexical Meaning
Commonly used fixed phrases with non-literal meanings
Denotation
Lexical Meaning
The literal meaning as defined in the dictionary
Connotation
Lexical Meaning
Additional emotional associations or values that attach to a word
Euphemism
A word or phrase that masks an unpleasant meaning, often by using a milder alternative.
Dysphemism
A word or phrase that magnifies an unpleasant meaning for humour or to cause offence.
