Semantic syntax : the relationship between structure and meaning

Abstract

This study explores semantic syntax as a modern linguistic approach that aims to understand the functional relationship between structure and meaning in language. The research investigates how the syntactic arrangement of elements within Arabic sentences contributes to meaning construction, and how grammatical functions interact with semantic roles to produce coherent discourse. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical method, providing a theoretical framework for semantic syntax, followed by applied analysis of selected examples from the Qur’an, Arabic poetry, and narrative texts. The findings indicate that semantic syntax offers more effective analytical tools for interpreting linguistic phenomena than traditional grammar, and proves essential for understanding literary, religious, and pragmatic texts alike. Keywords :Semantic syntax, structure, meaning, semantic roles, syntax, deletion, fronting, Qur’an, discourse.