What component of language is primarily responsible for meaning?

The component of language that is primarily responsible for meaning is semantics. Semantics is the study of meaning in language, encompassing the meanings of words, phrases, and sentences. It involves understanding how language conveys ideas, concepts, and emotions, and how meaning can vary based on context.

In the realm of communication, semantics allows us to discern not only the definitions of words but also the relationships between them, such as synonyms, antonyms, and more complex associations that contribute to overall meaning. This essential aspect of language plays a critical role in comprehension and interpretation, allowing individuals to engage in nuanced discussions and express complex thoughts.

The other components listed have important functions in language but do not primarily address meaning. The lexicon refers to the vocabulary of a language, which includes the words we use but does not encompass the broader concept of meaning in context. Articulation focuses on the physical production of sounds in speech, while phonology deals with the systematic organization of sounds in a language. While all these aspects are integral to communication, semantics is the key component that specifically relates to the understanding of meaning itself.