What does semantics refer to in linguistics?

Semantics in linguistics specifically pertains to the study of meaning. This encompasses not only the meanings of individual words but also how these words combine to form phrases and sentences that convey specific meanings. Understanding semantics is crucial for interpreting language correctly and involves analyzing how context, intonation, and the relationships between words influence the meaning of phrases and sentences.

In this context, the focus is on the ways that words relate to one another and to the concepts they represent, which is essential for effective communication. In contrast, the structure of sentences is more related to syntax, the social use of language pertains to pragmatics, and pronunciation touches on phonetics and phonology. By emphasizing the importance of meaning in communication, semantics plays a vital role in our understanding of linguistic expressions and their interpretation.