noun
Uncommon
semantics
sih-MAN-tihks
Semantics (noun) means the branch of linguistics concerned with meaning in language. Example: “Her thesis looked at the semantics of modal verbs in English.”
noun
1
The branch of linguistics concerned with meaning in language.
"Semantics is a foundation of lexicography."
"Her thesis looked at the semantics of modal verbs in English."
2
Informally, the fine distinctions or technicalities of wording in an argument, often used dismissively.
"That's just semantics — you know what I meant."
How to use semantics
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishThe study of what words and sentences actually mean, or loosely, arguing over word choice rather than substance.
Common mistake
When someone says "that's just semantics," they mean the disagreement is about wording, not the underlying facts.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
a matter of semantics
the semantics of a word
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Word forms
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Her thesis looked at the _____ of modal verbs in English.
Etymology
From French sémantique, built from Ancient Greek sēmantikos, "significant," ultimately from sēma, "sign."
Frequently asked questions
What does “semantics” mean?
The word “semantics” means the branch of linguistics concerned with meaning in language. In plain terms, the study of what words and sentences actually mean, or loosely, arguing over word choice rather than substance.
How do you pronounce “semantics”?
“Semantics” is pronounced sih-MAN-tihks (/sɪˈmæntɪks/ in IPA).
How do you use “semantics” in a sentence?
Here is “semantics” used in a sentence: “Her thesis looked at the semantics of modal verbs in English.”
What part of speech is “semantics”?
“Semantics” is a noun.
Where does the word “semantics” come from?
The word “semantics” comes from Ancient Greek. From French sémantique, built from Ancient Greek sēmantikos, "significant," ultimately from sēma, "sign.".
Is “semantics” a common word?
“Semantics” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “semantics” have?
“Semantics” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the branch of linguistics concerned with meaning in language.
