word

Semantics

suh-MAN-tiks

/səˈmæntɪks/

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Syllable breakdown

semantics

Dictionary meaning

The branch of linguistics and logic concerned with meaning — the meaning of words, phrases, sentences, and larger units of discourse, and how meaning is constructed and interpreted by speakers.

Examples

Semantics explores why 'bachelor' and 'unmarried man' mean the same thing.
The semantics of the contract were disputed, even though both parties agreed on the syntax.

Synonyms: meaning studies, linguistic meaning

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