Semantics

Question 1

Semantic fields / domain

Answer 1

An area of meaning that is identified by a set of related lexical items. Eg. Television (Channel, Broadcast, Screen, Remote).

Question 2

Inference

Answer 2

Additional information assumed by hearer/reader in order to make a connection to what is being implied. Eg. Pen (Stationary or school).

Question 3

Etymology

Answer 3

Study of history of words

Question 4

Denotation

Answer 4

The agreed upon, codified dictionary definition of a word. Eg. Green (literal colour green).

Question 5

Connotation

Answer 5

A meaning associated with the word. Eg. Green (sick or fresh).

Question 6

Broadening

Answer 6

A change in semantics, where the context in a word is extended. Eg. Grog (used to mean rum and water but know means all alcohol).

Question 7

Narrowing

Answer 7

A change in semantics where the context in a word is reduced. Eg. Liquor (used to mean all beverages but now means alcohol only).

Question 8

Elevation

Answer 8

A semantic shift where words change their emotive meanings to acquire positive associations. Eg. Sophisticated (Used to mean not natural but now describes someone educated).

Question 9

Deterioration

Answer 9

A semantic shift where words change their emotive meanings to acquire negative associations. Eg. Gaudy (Used to mean joyful festival but now changed to something with no taste).

Question 10

Shift

Answer 10

When a word changes its meaning over time. Eg. Bimbo (Used to be a name for an alcohol punch, now used for an un intelligent sexual women.