Why Is Semantics Essential to Language?
Previously, we discussed the three core components of language: sound, form, and meaning. While sound and form are crucial, today we’ll see why meaning—semantics—is indispensable.
Consider the sentence:
Colorless green ideas sleep furiously.
At first glance, this sentence is made up of perfectly valid words, each constructed from sounds and morphemes (for example, “color” + “-less” = “colorless”). The words combine into phrases:
- “colorless green ideas” (noun phrase)
- “sleep” (verb)
- “furiously” (adverb phrase)
Together, these form a complete sentence.
From a grammatical perspective, everything seems correct. The sentence follows the rules of syntax and morphology. However, something is off: the sentence doesn’t make sense. “Ideas” cannot sleep, let alone do so “furiously.” This famous example, introduced by Noam Chomsky, demonstrates that meaning is a vital part of language. Even if a sentence is grammatically flawless, without meaningful content, it fails to communicate.
Understanding Grammar: Prescriptive vs. Descriptive
Now, let’s clarify what we mean by “grammar.” In linguistics, grammar isn’t just about the rules you learned in school. It’s the entire system that makes a language work, including sounds, syllables, morphemes, words, phrases, clauses, and sentences.
There are two main types of grammar:
1. Prescriptive Grammar
- Definition: Prescribes how language should be used.
- Purpose: Sets rules for “correct” language, often found in grammar books.
- Example: A teacher corrects a student for saying “Can I go to the bathroom?” and insists on “May I go to the bathroom?” because “may” is traditionally used for permission.
2. Descriptive Grammar
- Definition: Describes how language is actually used by speakers.
- Purpose: Observes and records real-life language use, regardless of traditional rules.
- Example: Recognizes that most people say “Can I go to the bathroom?” and accepts it as a valid request in everyday English.
Why the Distinction Matters
The difference between prescriptive and descriptive grammar is more than academic. Prescriptive grammar often reflects the language of the elite or the “standard” dialect, sometimes creating class distinctions (e.g., “Queen’s English” or “Received Pronunciation”). Descriptive grammar, on the other hand, values all dialects and varieties equally, recognizing systematic rules in every form of language, including regional and social dialects.
For instance, a sentence like “I ain’t did nothing” might be rejected by prescriptive grammar but is perfectly valid in certain dialects from a descriptive perspective. Descriptive grammar seeks to understand the internal logic and rules of all language varieties.
Semantics and Grammar: Where Do They Meet?
Semantics is a part of grammar, but whether it’s approached prescriptively or descriptively makes a difference. In studying semantics, we can ask:
- How do different languages express meaning?
- What universal principles of meaning are shared across languages?
A descriptive approach to semantics allows us to compare languages and dialects, seeking out both their unique features and their commonalities. This helps us understand what is universal in human language and what is specific to individual languages or communities.
Conclusion
Semantics is essential to language because it provides meaning, the very heart of communication. Understanding the difference between prescriptive and descriptive grammar helps us appreciate the diversity and richness of human language. By studying semantics descriptively, we can uncover the universal principles that connect all languages and deepen our understanding of how meaning is created and conveyed.
Refrence:
Dr. Nimer Abusalim. "SEMANTICS-2: The Importance of Semantics and Types of Grammar." YouTube video, 18:36. September 18, 2017. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HrWBU7b0Z3s