A system of meaning in language is referred to as:
(A) Grammar
(B) Semantics
(C) Allegory
(D) Diction
Correct Ans: (B)
Explanation:
A system of meaning in language is referred to as Semantics. Semantics is the study of meaning in language, focusing on how words, phrases, sentences, and texts convey meaning. It examines how individuals interpret and understand language in various contexts.
In semantics, the relationship between symbols (such as words) and their meanings plays a crucial role. It looks into how meanings can change based on context, usage, and even the nuances of culture. Semantics also addresses how we understand different types of meaning, including literal meanings, implied meanings, and connotations.
While grammar refers to the rules and structure of a language, semantics is more concerned with the meaning of those structures. Diction refers to the choice of words and their pronunciation, whereas allegory refers to a narrative technique that uses symbolic figures and actions to convey a deeper meaning, often in literature.
Thus, semantics is the correct term for the system of meaning in language, as it directly addresses how we understand and interpret meaning through language.