Definition
A semantic component is a potentially contrastive part of the meaning of a lexical unit.
Examples
The focal semantic component of execute is “put to death”.
Comparison
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Here is a table that describes some kinds of semantic components: |
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Semantic Component |
Description |
Example |
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|---|---|---|---|---|
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Contrastive
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Distinguishes one lexical unit from another |
“Male” is the contrastive semantic component distinguishing man from woman, and boy fromgirl. |
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Shared
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Occurs in each member of a group of lexical units |
“Human” is a shared component for man,woman, boy, and girl. |
Kinds
More specific concepts within semantic component.