semantic memory: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1/C2Academic, Technical (Psychology, Neuroscience), Specialised
Quick answer
What does “semantic memory” mean?
A type of long-term memory that stores general knowledge about the world, concepts, facts, and meanings.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A type of long-term memory that stores general knowledge about the world, concepts, facts, and meanings.
The system responsible for storing and retrieving non-personal, conceptual information, including vocabulary, historical facts, and abstract principles, independent of personal experience or context.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical differences; the concept is identical in academic discourse. Spelling of related terms may differ (e.g., 'behavioural' vs. 'behavioral').
Connotations
Identical specialised, neutral, academic connotations.
Frequency
Identical frequency within psychology and cognitive science contexts; extremely rare in general discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “semantic memory” in a Sentence
The patient's semantic memory for [facts/concepts] was impaired.The study investigated [how/where] semantic memory is stored.This task primarily taps into semantic memory.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “semantic memory” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The theory posits that we *semanticise* sensory input over time.
- The patient could not *access* his semantic memory for tools.
American English
- The model explains how we *semanticize* perceptual experiences.
- The task requires you to *retrieve* information from semantic memory.
adverb
British English
- The knowledge was stored *semantically*.
- The concepts were organised *semantically* rather than temporally.
American English
- Information is represented *semantically* in that network.
- He processed the word *semantically*, not phonologically.
adjective
British English
- There was a clear *semantic-memory* deficit.
- The *semantic* knowledge was remarkably preserved.
American English
- She showed *semantic-memory* impairment.
- The *semantic* information was organised categorically.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Primary context. Used in psychology, neuroscience, linguistics, and cognitive science research papers and textbooks.
Everyday
Virtually never used; replaced by phrases like 'general knowledge' or 'remembering facts'.
Technical
The precise technical term in relevant fields for the specific cognitive system.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “semantic memory”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “semantic memory”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “semantic memory”
- Using 'semantic memory' to refer to remembering words only (it's broader).
- Confusing it with 'episodic memory'.
- Using it in casual conversation where 'general knowledge' is meant.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Semantic memory is for general facts and knowledge (e.g., 'dogs have four legs'), while episodic memory is for personal experiences and events (e.g., 'my dog knocked over my coffee yesterday').
Yes, certain neurological conditions like semantic dementia or Alzheimer's disease can specifically impair semantic memory, leading to loss of knowledge about objects, words, and concepts.
Yes, it is part of the declarative (explicit) memory system, meaning its recall is typically a conscious, effortful process, unlike procedural (implicit) memory.
Yes, the meanings of words (lexical semantics) are a core component of semantic memory, though the sound patterns of words might involve separate phonological systems.
A type of long-term memory that stores general knowledge about the world, concepts, facts, and meanings.
Semantic memory is usually academic, technical (psychology, neuroscience), specialised in register.
Semantic memory: in British English it is pronounced /sɪˈmæntɪk ˈmɛm(ə)ri/, and in American English it is pronounced /səˈmænṭɪk ˈmɛməri/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “A walking encyclopedia (colloquial, related concept)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of SEMANTIC MEMORY as the 'encyclopedia' or 'Wikipedia' in your mind, storing facts and meanings (semantics) about the world, as opposed to your personal diary (episodic memory).
Conceptual Metaphor
MEMORY IS A STORAGE CONTAINER (e.g., 'stored in semantic memory'), KNOWLEDGE IS A NETWORK (e.g., 'semantic networks').
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the best example of semantic memory?