Introduction to Semantics 3301-ZJ-JF002
The aim of the course is to introduce the fundamentals of semantic description – presenting its objectives and methods. Starting with the origin of the term "semantics" and an overview of its definitions, we move on to discuss the following issues:
1. What is semantics? (basic notions of semantics, semantics/semiotics, definition and types of signs, semantics/pragmatics distinction)
2. Logical matters (arguments and predicates, sense, denotation and reference, prototypes and stereotypes , logical relations between sentences)
3. Sense relations (synonymy, hyponymy, antonymy, homonymy, homophony, polysemy; ambiguity, etc.)
4. Intuitions about meaning, definitions of meaning (meaning as dictionary definition, mental image, reference, truth-conditions , felicity conditions of speech acts)
5. Seven types of meaning
6. Communicating the meaning - coding-decoding model of communication, functions of language ( referential, emotive, conative, phatic, metalingual, poetic)
7. The principle of compositionality and non-literal meaning: idioms, metaphor and metonymy
Type of course
Mode
Course coordinators
Learning outcomes
Knowledge
- K_W01 The graduate has in-depth familiarity with advanced terminology, theory and research methods corresponding to the state of the art
in the discipline of linguistics, with a special focus on semantics, in accordance with their chosen specialization (and educational path), on the basis of contemporary Anglo-American linguistic literature
- K_W04 The graduate has in-depth familiarity with concepts and principles concerning the protection of intellectual property and copyright
Abilities
- K_U01 The graduate is able to apply the advanced terminology, theories and methods of linguistic research to solve complex and original research problems of semantic nature with reference to the issues described in the syllabus, in accordance with his/her chosen specialization (and educational path) within the English studies
- K_U04 The graduate is able to apply the concepts and principles of intellectual property protection and copyright law
Social competences
- K_K01 The graduate is ready to critically appraise their knowledge and content obtained from various sources
- K_K02 The graduate is ready to recognize the importance of knowledge in solving cognitive and practical problems; consult experts when required
Linguistic skills: B2+
In class discussions students acquire skills of expressing their thoughts in a clear, coherent, logical and precise manner, with the use of language which is correct grammatically, lexically and phonetically.
The graduate:
1. Knows the basic concepts of semantics and is able to apply this knowledge to the description and analysis of data.
2. Can define meaning within the framework of several semantic theories and critically compare these theories of meaning.
3. Is familiar with types of meaning and the functions of language.
4. Distinguishes and names logical relations between sentences and lexical relations; differentiates between literal and metaphorical meanings of expressions.
5. Knows the basic mechanisms of semantic analysis and can apply them to data.
6. Recognizes the differences between semantic meaning and pragmatic meaning.
7. Understands linguistic communication as a phenomenon that goes beyond the semantic meaning of expressions, largely dependent on context and the speaker's intentions.
8. Is prepared for further study in the fields of semantics, pragmatics, and linguistic communication.
Assessment criteria
Requirements:
1. Handouts, carrying out tasks during classes (verification of outcomes: W,
U, K)
2. Participation in discussions, oral contributions (verification of outcomes: W,
U, K)
3. Self-study (reading the literature, home assignments, preparing a presentation on the basis of the literature and linguistic data) (verification of outcomes: W, U)
4. Phasing assessment methods (written assignments, Moodle quizzes, a group presentation) (verification of outcomes: W, U, K)
5. Written final test (verification of outcomes: W, U)
Bibliography
1. Cruse, A. 2010. Meaning in Language: An Introduction to Semantics and Pragmatics. OUP.
2. Grice, P. 1975. Logic and conversation.
3. Hurford, J.B. Heasley. 1983. Semantics. CUP.
4. Jakobson. Linguistics and poetics.
5. Leech, G. 1974. Semantics. Longman.
6. Lyons, J. 1977. Semantics. CUP.
Notes
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Term 2025Z:
Attendance is obligatory. 2 absences are allowed. |
Additional information
Additional information (registration calendar, class conductors, localization and schedules of classes), might be available in the USOSweb system: