ASound patterns of language
BStructure of sentences
CMeaning of words and sentences
DEvolution of language
Answer:
C. Meaning of words and sentences
Read Explanation:
The study of semantics focuses on the meaning of words, phrases, sentences, and texts. It examines how meanings are conveyed through language, how words and sentences can have different meanings in different contexts, and how meanings change over time.
Key areas in semantics include:
Lexical Semantics: The meaning of individual words and their relationships to one another (e.g., synonyms, antonyms, homophones).
Compositional Semantics: How the meanings of individual words combine to form the meaning of a sentence or larger unit of discourse.
Pragmatics: How context influences the interpretation of meaning.
In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of language:
a) Sound patterns of language is the focus of phonology.
b) Structure of sentences is the focus of syntax.
d) Evolution of language is typically studied in historical linguistics.
Thus, semantics is primarily concerned with meaning in language.