Semantics:
Basic Concepts
Presented by:
Rahma Sadiya Goenadi
What is Semantics?
Semantics is the area of Semantics is important because it
linguistics that analyzes the helps us understand meanings
meaning of words, phrases and clearly, we can communicate
sentences in language. better and avoid
misunderstanding. It also helps
The term “semantics” comes from language learners use the right
the Greek word “semantikos,” words in different situations.
which means “significant.”
It was first used by the French
philosopher Michel Bréal in the
late 19th century.
Types of Semantics
Lexical Semantics Phrasal Semantics
Lexical semantics is a branch of linguistics Phrasal semantics is the study of how
that studies the meaning of words, how meanings are formed when words are
words are related in meaning, and how combined into phrases. Phrasal
meanings change depending on context. semantics helps us understand how word
combinations create new meanings
Sentential Semantics Pragmatics Semantics
Sentential semantics is the study of Pragmatics and semantics are two
meaning in complete sentences. different but related areas of meaning.
Sentential semantics helps us understand Semantics is about literal meaning.
how sentence structure determines who Pragmatics is about intended
does what to whom and how the whole meaning.
sentence makes sense.
EXAMPLES OF
EACH TYPE OF
SEMANTICS
Lexical Semantics
"Bank"
I have to go to the bank before
He sat by the bank and watched
it closes.
the water flow.
In this sentence, “bank” means a
In this sentence, “bank” means
place where people keep their
the side of a river.
money.
Lexical Semantics
"Bat"
At night, a bat flew across the
The player swung the bat and
dark sky.
hit the ball hard.
In this sentence, “bat” means an
In this sentence, “bat” means a
animal that flies at night.
wooden stick used in baseball.
Lexical Semantics
"Light"
The sun gives us light during the This bag is very light, so I can
day. carry it easily.
In this sentence, “light” means In this sentence, “light” means
something that makes things not heavy.
visible.
Phrasal Semantics
Literal Meaning Idiomatic Meaning
(the words keep their original meaning) (the meaning is different from the words)
Strong tea → tea that has a rich or strong Hot dog →a kind of food made with a
flavor. sausage in a bun, not a real dog.
Cold water →
water that is low in Break the ice → to start a friendly
temperature. conversation in a new situation.
Big house → a house that is large in size. Piece of cake → something that is very easy to
do.
Sentential Semantics
The teacher teaches the
→
students. it shows who
does what to whom
The baby cried because he
→
was hungry. it shows
cause and effect
If it rains, we will stay
→
home. it shows
condition and result
Pragmatics Semantics
It’s cold here.
Semantics: The temperature is low.
💬 Pragmatics: Please close the window / turn off the fan.
This soup is hot.
Semantics: The temperature of the soup is high.
💬 Pragmatics: Be careful or wait before eating.
Nice job!
Semantics: A compliment on good work.
💬 Pragmatics: Could be sarcastic, depending on tone or
situation (e.g., after a mistake).
Types of Semantic Meaning
Conceptual Meaning
Focus: Literal or dictionary meaning.
→
Example: “Dog” an animal that barks.
It tells what the word actually means.
Connotative Meaning
Focus: Emotional or suggested meaning.
→
Example: “Home” comfort, love, and safety.
It shows how people feel about the word.
Social Meaning
Focus: Depends on social context or formality.
Example: “Hi” (informal) vs. “Good morning” (formal).
It shows how we use language in different situations.
Conclusion
Understanding semantics allows us to see how language
carries not just words, but meaning, emotion, and intention. It
reminds us that communication is more than grammar—it’s
about connection and clarity. By studying semantics, we learn
to choose words that express ideas accurately and build
deeper understanding between people.