What term refers to the study of meaning in language?

What term refers to the study of meaning in language?

• A. Semantics
• B. Syntax
• C. Phonology
• D. Pragmatics

Answer: (A)

Meaning in language is studied by semantics. Semantics looks at what words and sentences mean—their denotation, sense, and how words relate to one another (like synonyms, antonyms, or multiple senses). It also covers how the meaning of phrases builds up from the meanings of individual words, and how figurative or nuanced meanings fit into the overall interpretation. For example, understanding why a sentence with “bright idea” uses a figurative sense involves semantics’ attention to how meanings extend beyond the literal word. Other areas focus on different aspects: syntax studies sentence structure and grammar, phonology studies sounds and pronunciation, and pragmatics looks at how context, speaker intention, and real-world use shape meaning. This distinction helps ESOL learners see why a word’s dictionary meaning isn’t the whole story and why context can tweak or extend meaning.

Meaning in language is studied by semantics. Semantics looks at what words and sentences mean—their denotation, sense, and how words relate to one another (like synonyms, antonyms, or multiple senses). It also covers how the meaning of phrases builds up from the meanings of individual words, and how figurative or nuanced meanings fit into the overall interpretation. For example, understanding why a sentence with “bright idea” uses a figurative sense involves semantics’ attention to how meanings extend beyond the literal word. Other areas focus on different aspects: syntax studies sentence structure and grammar, phonology studies sounds and pronunciation, and pragmatics looks at how context, speaker intention, and real-world use shape meaning. This distinction helps ESOL learners see why a word’s dictionary meaning isn’t the whole story and why context can tweak or extend meaning.