Semantics Flashcards
Semantics
- The relation of meaning + sign
- Semantic field/domain
- Semantic overgeneralisation + inference
- Inference
- Etymology
- Semantic patterning
- Lexical meaning (especially sense relations)
- Euphemism + dysphemism
The relation of meaning + sign
Knowing a language means knowing a certain sign (aka signifier) is connected to a certain meaning (aka signified).
- Connection between a sign + it’s meaning is arbitrary (no real reason why something is called a certain name).
Semantic field/domain
Lexemes can be grouped together with others that have interrelated meanings.
- Organising by semantic field makes it possible to understand the topic/focus of the discourse.
Semantic over-generalisation + inference
When inferences are made that extend the meaning of the word beyond it’s accepted use, often by children (eg. ‘dog’ used for any 4-legged animal).
Semantic under-generalisation
Words are given a narrower meaning (eg. ‘dog’ used only for family pet, not all dogs).
Inference
Requires the ability to fill in the gaps between what has explicitly been said + what is meant (essential for children as they acquire language).
Etymology
Study of origins + development of word forms + their meanings (broadenings, narrowing, elevation, deterioration, + shift).
- Examining etymology - ability to draw conclusions about prevalent attitudes, beliefs, customs, + behaviours of people in particular times + places.
Semantic patterning
Lexical choices can lead to lexical + semantic patterns that have a significant impact of the style + register of the text.
- Irony
- Metaphor
- Oxymoron
- Similie
- Personification
- Animation
- Puns (homonyms + homophones)
- Lexical ambiguity
Irony
When a speaker/writer states one thing but actually intends the audience to understand an opposing/contradictory meaning (eg. ‘nice day for a picnic’).
Metaphor
Figure of speech in which one thing is said to be another - creates an implicit comparison between 2 things, requiring more knowledge + imagination.
Oxymoron
Types of phrases that combine 2 apparently contradictory words for special effect (eg. ‘deafening silence’).
Similie
Figure of speech that explicitly connects one thing to another in order to make a comparison.
Personification
Specific type of metaphor that gives non-humans human qualities or abilities.
Animation
Type of metaphor that gives movement/life to inanimate objects, ideas, or places (qualities transferred are not typically human).
Puns
Play on different meanings of words exploiting lexical ambiguity for comedic effect. May involves homonyms + homophones.