Here's a breakdown:
* Words: Semantics explores the different meanings a word can have (e.g., "bank" can refer to a financial institution or the edge of a river), the relationship between words (e.g., synonyms, antonyms), and how word meaning changes over time.
* Phrases: It examines the meaning of groups of words, how they combine to create a larger meaning, and the different ways a phrase can be interpreted.
* Sentences: Semantics delves into the meaning of complete sentences, how individual words and phrases contribute to the overall message, and how sentences can be understood in context.
Semantics is a crucial part of understanding language and communication. It helps us:
* Interpret text and speech: To understand what someone is trying to convey.
* Resolve ambiguity: When a word or phrase can have multiple meanings.
* Analyze and critique language: To identify biases, hidden meanings, and the impact of language on thought.
So, yes, semantics is all about understanding the meaning of language!