Glossary of Linguistic Terms

Semantic Component

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: 

Here is a table that describes some kinds of semantic components:

Semantic Component

Description

Example

Contrastive

Also known as:

diagnostic, distinctive, essential

Distinguishes one lexical unit from another

“Male” is the contrastive semantic component distinguishing man from woman, and boy fromgirl.

Shared

Also known as:

common

Occurs in each member of a group of lexical units

“Human” is a shared component for man,woman, boy, and girl.

See Also: