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semiology

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˌsɛmɪˈɒlədʒi/

KK: /sɛmiˈɑlədʒi/

noun
Definition

The study of signs and symbols, especially in relation to their use in communication and meaning.


Example

Semiology helps us understand how signs convey meaning in different contexts.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of semiology?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's about the study of signs, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I find it fascinating how we use signs in communication.
Sloth B
Me too! It's interesting how much meaning can be conveyed with just symbols.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
signology
semantics
semiotics
Antonyms
nonsense
ambiguity
confusion
Root Explanation

Semiology → It is formed from "semi-" (from Greek "sēmeion", meaning sign) and "-logy" (from Greek "logia", meaning study or science). The word refers to the study of signs and symbols, particularly in language and communication.

Memory Tip

Think of 'sign' ('semi-') and 'study' ('-logy') to remember that semiology is the study of signs.

Visually Confused Words
semeiology
semology
semasiology
spermology
speciology
sematology
seismology
feminology
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