Semantics is the study of meaning in language, focusing on how words, phrases, and sentences convey meaning. It explores how context, syntax, and the relationships between words contribute to our understanding of language. For instance, the word "bank" can refer to a financial institution or the side of a river, depending on its usage.
In addition to individual words, semantics also examines how meaning changes in different contexts and how speakers interpret language. This field is essential for understanding communication, as it helps clarify how we derive meaning from both spoken and written forms of language.