What does 'semantic change' refer to?

What does 'semantic change' refer to?

• A. Changes in spelling over time
• B. Alterations in the pronunciation of words
• C. Changes in meaning of words through various processes
• D. Variations in grammatical structure

Answer: (C)

Semantic change refers to the evolution of word meanings over time, encompassing various processes that can alter how we understand specific terms. This can happen through processes such as broadening (where a word's meaning becomes more inclusive), narrowing (where a word's meaning becomes more specific), amelioration (where a word takes on a more positive connotation), or pejoration (where a word acquires a more negative meaning). Understanding semantic change is crucial because it reflects shifts in culture, society, and usage, showing how language evolves to meet the needs of its speakers. The other options focus on different aspects of language development, such as spelling, pronunciation, and grammatical structure, which do not pertain directly to the changes in word meaning that define semantic change.

Semantic change refers to the evolution of word meanings over time, encompassing various processes that can alter how we understand specific terms. This can happen through processes such as broadening (where a word's meaning becomes more inclusive), narrowing (where a word's meaning becomes more specific), amelioration (where a word takes on a more positive connotation), or pejoration (where a word acquires a more negative meaning).

Understanding semantic change is crucial because it reflects shifts in culture, society, and usage, showing how language evolves to meet the needs of its speakers. The other options focus on different aspects of language development, such as spelling, pronunciation, and grammatical structure, which do not pertain directly to the changes in word meaning that define semantic change.