What does semantics involve in the study of language?

Semantics is the branch of linguistics focused specifically on the meanings of words, phrases, and sentences. It delves into how language conveys meaning, examining not just individual words but also the relationships between them and how they form meanings when combined. A strong understanding of semantics is crucial for effective communication, particularly in educational settings for deaf and hard-of-hearing students, as it helps in the construction of meaning from language, which is essential for language acquisition and literacy development.

The other options pertain to different aspects of language study: the rules for generating sentences fall under syntax, the sounds and their combinations relate to phonetics and phonology, and the social and cultural implications of language connect to pragmatics and sociolinguistics. Each of these areas plays a vital role in understanding language, but semantics specifically targets the aspect of meaning that enables speakers and listeners to comprehend and engage with language effectively.