O que é SEMÂNTICA? Aprenda TUDO Sobre SEMÂNTICA Passo a Passo + Exemplos

Summary

In this lesson, Professor Alice introduces the fundamentals of semantics, the study of meaning in language. She explains key concepts like denotation, connotation, synonymy, antonymy, and polysemy, using real-life examples to clarify how meanings can shift depending on context. The lecture also covers homonymy, paronymy, and the importance of understanding ambiguity in language. Designed for learners looking to deepen their understanding of linguistic meaning, this video provides valuable insights for exams, essays, and everyday communication. Professor Alice encourages interaction, offering tips on how to avoid ambiguity and enhance clarity in language use.

Takeaways

• 😀 Semantics is the branch of linguistics that studies the meaning of words, phrases, and expressions in specific contexts.
• 😀 Synchronic semantics focuses on the meaning of words at the present moment, while diachronic semantics studies the historical evolution of meanings.
• 😀 Words can have multiple meanings depending on context, demonstrating the flexibility of language.
• 😀 Connotation refers to the figurative meaning of words, while denotation is their literal, dictionary meaning.
• 😀 Synonyms are words that have similar meanings in a specific context, but they are not always interchangeable in every situation.
• 😀 Antonyms are words that have opposite meanings and can help define each other in a given context.
• 😀 Hypernyms are broader terms that encompass a range of related words, while hyponyms are more specific terms within those categories.
• 😀 Paronyms are words that are similar in sound or spelling but have different meanings, requiring careful attention in usage.
• 😀 Homonymy refers to words that share the same spelling or pronunciation but have different meanings, which can be homographs, homophones, or both.
• 😀 Polysemy occurs when a single word has multiple meanings, and these meanings are context-dependent, such as the word 'manga' meaning both a fruit and part of a shirt.
• 😀 Ambiguity arises when a sentence or phrase has multiple interpretations, which can lead to confusion without clear context.

Q & A

What is semantics in linguistics?

Semantics is the branch of linguistics that studies the meaning of words, phrases, and expressions in a specific context. It explains the sense of the message being conveyed and also analyzes the changes in meaning over time.

What is the difference between denotation and connotation?

Denotation refers to the literal or dictionary meaning of a word, while connotation refers to the figurative or implied meaning of the word within a given context.

Can you give an example of connotation?

An example of connotation is the phrase 'Carlos partiu o coração de Letícia.' The word 'partiu' here does not literally mean that Carlos broke Letícia’s heart, but rather that he emotionally hurt her.

What does the term 'synonyms' mean in semantics?

Synonyms are words that share similar meanings in a specific context. However, they may not always be interchangeable in every situation.

Can you provide an example of synonyms in context?

In the sentence 'Gosto muito de andar' and 'Gosto muito de caminhar', 'andar' and 'caminhar' are synonyms, as both express a similar idea of movement in this context.

What is antonymy?

Antonymy refers to words whose meanings are opposite to each other. These words establish a relationship of opposition, like 'solteiro' (single) and 'casado' (married).

What are hypernyms and hyponyms?

A hypernym is a word that has a broader meaning and encompasses other related terms, like 'mamífero' (mammal) for specific animals. A hyponym is a more specific word within that broader category, like 'gato' (cat) or 'cachorro' (dog).

Can you explain paronymy with an example?

Paronymy occurs when words have similar spelling or pronunciation but differ in meaning. For example, 'sino' (bell) and 'suar' (to sweat) are paronyms.

What is homonymy?

Homonymy is when two or more words have the same pronunciation or spelling but different meanings. For example, the word 'são' in 'eles são bonitos' (they are beautiful) versus 'estou são e salvo' (I am safe and sound).

What does polysemy mean in linguistics?

Polysemy refers to a single word having multiple meanings depending on the context. For example, the word 'manga' can mean both the fruit and the sleeve of a shirt.

What is ambiguity in language, and how does it affect meaning?

Ambiguity arises when a sentence has multiple possible meanings, which can lead to confusion. For example, 'levou o filho para o seu quarto' could imply either the son's room or the father's room, creating ambiguity.

How does the study of semantics help with effective communication?

Understanding semantics helps individuals better interpret and convey meanings in language, especially in complex or nuanced contexts, and is crucial for exams and other assessments.