Semantics Flashcards
semantics
Meaning of phrases and sentences
Signifier
A certain sign that is connected to a certain meaning (signified)
Arbitrary relationship
There is no particular reason for the relationship
Sound symbolism
Onomatapeic words can be less arbitrary (connected to the meaning)
Semantic Field
The topic/focus of the words.
Inference
Filing in the gaps using existing knowledge
Semantic overgeneralisation
making inferences that extend the meaning of a word beyond its accepted use
Etymology
The study of the origins of words and historic development of their form and meaning
Denotation
The denotation of a word is its literal meaning as it is defined in the dictionary.
Connotation
refers to the additional emotional associations or values that attach themselves to that word over time.
Codification
Through the process of codification, lexemes take on object and agreed-upon meanings.
Semantic change
The change in the meaning of a word
Broadening
Takes on new meaning while retaining its old meaning
Narrowing
Means less than it did, loses meanings.
Elevation
Loses bad connotation gains good connotation
