What we mean when we say semantic: Toward a multidisciplinary semantic glossary

Area of Science:

• Cognitive Psychology
• Linguistics
• Philosophy
• Neuroscience

Background:

• Semantic memory, as defined by Tulving, is a key component of cognition underlying language and meaning.
• Diverse fields use overlapping terms (e.g., 'concept') with varying definitions, leading to ambiguity.
• This lack of construct specificity contributes to the replication crisis in psychology and related disciplines.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a common nomenclature for 17 core semantic constructs.
• To enhance clarity and reduce ambiguity in semantic memory research.
• To facilitate cross-disciplinary communication and rigorous theory development.

Main Methods:

• Compilation of a multidisciplinary semantic glossary.
• Inclusion of succinct definitions, background information, and dissenting views for each construct.
• Inclusion of agreement ratings and subjective confidence levels for each definition.

Main Results:

• A glossary of 17 target semantic constructs (e.g., abstractness, concept, semantic control) has been produced.
• The glossary provides definitions, context, and varying perspectives on these fundamental terms.
• Potential benefits and challenges of establishing a common semantic nomenclature are discussed.

Conclusions:

• A standardized semantic glossary can mitigate ambiguity and support incremental theory-building.
• Addressing construct specificity is crucial for scientific rigor and replicability.
• This glossary serves as a resource for researchers to precisely define their theoretical perspectives.