semantisk

Semantisk is a term used in several Scandinavian languages to refer to semantics—the study of meaning in language, logic, and information systems. The word derives from Greek roots meaning sign and meaning, and in these languages it functions as an adjective equivalent to “semantic” or “semantical.” It is commonly used to describe aspects of meaning independent of syntactic form.

In linguistics, semantics concerns the meanings of words, phrases, and sentences, how those meanings combine, and how context affects interpretation. It is distinct from syntax, which studies structure, and from pragmatics, which examines how context shapes use. Major subfields include lexical semantics (word meanings and relationships), compositional semantics (how meanings build up in larger expressions), and formal semantics (mathematical or logical representations of meaning).

In philosophy and logic, semantics relates to theories about truth, reference, and propositions. Influential approaches include truth-conditional semantics, possible-worlds semantics, and Montague grammar, all aimed at formalizing how linguistic expressions connect to facts and states of affairs.

In computer science, semantics describes what programs and systems do. This includes language semantics (denotational, operational, and axiomatic perspectives), compiler correctness, and formal verification. Within the semantic web, semantics refers to meaning assigned to data through standards like RDF and OWL to enable machines to interpret information.

Challenges in semantisk contexts include ambiguity, polysemy, and context-sensitivity. Effective semantic analysis often requires integrating linguistic meaning with pragmatics, world knowledge, and cultural factors.