Semantics Flashcards
Semantic patterning
FLAMPOPISH. involves the organisation and arrangement of meanings
or semantic concepts within a text. This can be used to aid with cohesion and
coherence, and to capture and maintain the attention of specific audiences
Figurative language
includes words or expressions that deviate from their literal
or ordinary meanings to create a more vivid or expressive effect. Figurative
language is an umbrella term that consists of many other semantic patterns
Irony
occurs when a speaker or writer states one thing but means another,
typically the opposite of what they have stated. This can be achieved via sarcasm,
understatement or backhanded compliments
Metaphor
uses one semantic domain to help explain another semantic domain
Oxymoron
created when contradictory words or phrases are used in
combination to create a contrasting effect. The juxtaposition of contradictory
elements can evoke irony, humour or emphasise a paradoxical situation
Simile
compares elements using ‘like’ or ‘as’ to highlight their similarities
Hyperbole
a figure of speech that involves exaggerated statements or claims
that are not meant to be taken literally
Personification
a pattern that attributes human qualities, characteristics or
actions to non-human entities or inanimate objects
Animation
the technique of bringing inanimate objects or fictional characters
to life through language based around motion and expression
Lexical Ambiguity
refers to the existence of two or more possible meanings within
a single word. Lexical ambiguity can also be known as semantic ambiguity. When
used intentionally, lexical ambiguity can add layers of meaning to a text, evoke
emotion or produce a comedic effect
Puns
form of lexical ambiguity that exploits multiple meanings for an intended
humorous or rhetorical effect. These plays on words rely heavily on phonological,
orthographical (relating to writing conventions) or semantic similarities.
Semantic Domain
A lexical set of words that are grouped by meaning and share a common semantic property, often referred to as a semantic domain (for example, spaniel, corgi, collie and terrier are all part of the semantic domain of dogs).
Idiom
commonly used phrases which have a non-literal meaning. These may
be integrated within a language, or more specific to individual social groups
Denotation
the literal meaning of a word, as found in the dictionary
Connotation
set of associations and values that are attributed to a word
over time
Euphemism
words or phrases that are used in place of a particularly blunt or
taboo word or phrase, to reduce the impact of the statement
Dysphemism
words or phrases that are used to magnify a particularly blunt
or taboo word or phrase, to increase the impact of the statement
