Semantics: Referential approach to meaning Flashcards
1
Q
Common nouns refer to…
A
a set of objects
2
Q
Proper nouns refer to
A
a unique object
3
Q
How is meaning defined with the different sets of objects?
A
having a specific set of referents
4
Q
What are differences in meaning caused by?
A
by different sets of referents
dog and cat
5
Q
What are subking relations?
A
subsets of nouns
animal, dog, poodle
6
Q
Which problems do arise with this system?
A
problem 1: unicorn and dragon
how to determine meaning?
how can one distinguish these meanings?
–> there must be more to meaning than just reference
problem 2: proper nouns also have meaning
Nigel and dog
problem 3: abstract nouns
problem 4: identity of reference is necessary but not sufficient
