semanticise 

To make arguments for the sake of being a winy stupid face.

I enjoy semanticising with my best friend Bex. We like to semanticise.

semanticise by Klayberhamlincon September 23, 2013

arguing semantics 

When people argue about the definition or meaning of a word. This usually starts in the middle of an argument and distracts from the main topic of the argument. Whether done intentionally or not depends on the people arguing.

When an argument deteriorates and its focus becomes one about word definitions rather than the main topic, a person will usually say "Oh, now we're just arguing semantics". Usually by this point, the arguement has become a waste of time because it has morphed into a bunch of bickering about irrelevant, unimportant details rather than the original main point.

If someone accuses you of arguing semantics, they're usually accusing you of intentionally avoiding the topic. In this case, the person may or may not be misusing the phrase in order to do so. If you're not actually arguing about word definitions, then they should accuse you of being nit-picky instead (as that would be more accurate) but to explain it to this degree becomes a bit nit-picky in and of itself and so for obvious reasons, this is the end.

Jenny: Hey Tommy, did you do your homework?
Tommy: I would never do my homework.
Jenny: What do you mean? You always do your homework!
Tommy: No, I would never "do" my homework - that would be gross. But if you want to know if I completed my homework...
Jenny: Oh, please. Spare me. Now you're just arguing semantics.

arguing semantics by PineappleJane February 9, 2017

semantics 

The main purpose for internet forums.
The study of discussing the meaning/interpretation of words or groups of words within a certain context; usually in order to win some form of argument.

Now come on, let's not get bogged down in semantics.

semantics by molecule802.11 April 5, 2009

Semantics 

An argument, or a type of guarantee that the outcome of your statement can be taken in two or more ways which will benefit you in either way it’s perceived. The *careful* use of semantics can be applied to situations which allow you to be right in any reverse query. You’re basically using their own ignorance against them. See example...

“I put up an ad on craigslist and used your picture.” This could mean the person used a picture that the other party has taken of them, or they used a picture of the other party. The answer has been concealed within semantics and incomplete phrasing.

Semantics by Seanus Unaes February 26, 2018

semantics 

The study of the meaning of words.

Often misused when quibbling about something someone said. In that context, the statement "That's only semantics" would be more aptly phrased as "You're just 'splitting hairs on word meanings."

Often used within the phrase "That's only semantics":
-- as a blanket repudiation of precise communication.

-- by persons advocating 'subjective feelings' over 'objective description' as a mainstay of communication.

The very concept of semantics is frequently disparaged by wishy-washy passive-aggressives who refuse to be accountable for their careless use of language or their deplorable lack of education.

Skater-boy was too lazy to choose his words carefully, unaware that without semantics, even his street drivel would be incomprehensible.

semantics by wclay1 September 1, 2009

prostitutive semanticization 

1. v. (eg. prostitutively semanticize) To throw around a term or concept until it loses all meaning.
2. n. Use of a term or concept so as to misrepresent oneself as embodying the concept or term. Phony auto-ennobling.

3. v. To attempt a meme-seed inception by repetition and amplification (usually through the distributive media).
4. n. Overuse or abuse of terms or concepts.

Most commonly used by politicians to forward a particular agenda or get a particular candidate elected. But also used quite heavily in religion.

Distinguishes itself from outright attention-whoring usually by its subtlety or its assumption of the self-evidence of the virtuosity of its terms or concepts.

Alex: Did you see that Tea Party rally? I have never seen such an obscene spectacle of prostitutive semanticization in my entire life.

Sarah: I know, right? I went to it as a gag and I didn't take away anything meaningful at all from it. The word 'freedom' was thrown around so much, I don't know what it means anymore! And all those references to Hitler! Why does everybody do that every time they encounter someone they don't like?

prostitutive semanticization by DEDC June 8, 2012

semantics 

My understanding of the term "semantics" is that words can be manipulated to influence human thought and action. Mr. George Orwell had a good grasp of the concept, for example "Newspeak". Please look up "semantics" in a dictionary for a more professional definition.

An example of the use of semantics is: "Foetus" as compared to "unborn child".

semantics by Friend of Tell March 7, 2009