semnifica

Semnifica is a Romanian verb meaning to signify, to denote, or to have as its meaning. It is used to indicate what a sign, word, symbol, or gesture expresses in a given context. In everyday language, semnifica often translates as “to mean,” while the synonym a însemna is common in more colloquial contexts. The verb is frequently employed in linguistic, philosophical, and formal discussions about meaning or signification, as in cuvântul X semnifică Y or simbolul semnifică pace.

Etymology and related terms: semnifica derives from Latin significare, through the Romanian development of significare. Related Romanian terms include semnificație, the noun for meaning or signification; semnificativ, meaning significant or meaningful; and the broader notion of sens and semnificație in semantics. The word is cognate with equivalent terms in other Romance languages, such as significare in Italian or significar in Spanish.

Usage and nuance: semnifica is appropriate in formal, academic, or precise statements about meaning. In contrast, însemna is more common in everyday speech when simply saying that something means something else. Examples: “Acest simbol semnifică pace.” and “Cuvântul X semnifică un concept abstract.” In linguistics and philosophy, semnifica is often paired with semnificația cuvintelor and with discussion of signified versus signifier in more advanced analyses.

See also: semnificație, semnificativ, sens, însemna.