The study of literal meaning. It explores how words and sentences convey specific concepts and how those meanings relate to one another.
Linguists typically break language down into five fundamental components: Key Concepts in Language and Linguistics
Linguistics - LibGuides at California State University, Fullerton The study of literal meaning
The study of language in context. This looks at how hidden meanings, social cues, and physical surroundings influence what a speaker actually means (e.g., understanding sarcasm). Key Theoretical Concepts the word "unfriendly" contains three: un-
The study of word formation and structure. This involves analyzing morphemes , which are the smallest units of meaning (e.g., the word "unfriendly" contains three: un- , friend , and -ly ).