What does semantics focus on in language?

Semantics is a branch of linguistics that specifically studies the meanings of words, phrases, sentences, and even whole texts. When focusing on semantics, one is concerned with how language conveys meaning, which includes understanding how different words and phrases can represent different concepts, emotions, or ideas. This covers aspects of meaning such as denotation (the literal meaning) and connotation (the implied or associated meanings).

By concentrating on the meanings, semantics plays an essential role in communication, as it helps individuals interpret and create messages accurately. Understanding semantics is fundamental for effective language use, particularly in early childhood education, where teaching children the meanings of words is crucial for their language development and comprehension skills.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of language: structure pertains to grammar and syntax, sounds relate to phonetics, and morphemes involve the smallest units of meaning in words.