signifiant: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2Academic / Technical
Quick answer
What does “signifiant” mean?
In linguistics, the signifier.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
In linguistics, the signifier; the form of a sign, typically a word's sound or written shape, as opposed to its meaning.
The perceptible, material aspect of a linguistic sign, distinct from its conceptual meaning (the signified). This is a core concept in structuralist linguistics and semiotics.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The word is identical in both varieties. The only potential difference is in academic citation conventions or the degree of adoption of the original French term versus the translated 'signifier'.
Connotations
Using the French term 'signifiant' signals a direct engagement with Saussurean or European structuralist/post-structuralist theory. Using 'signifier' is more generic.
Frequency
Extremely low frequency in general language, but higher in specialized academic texts. No notable difference in frequency between UK and US academic writing.
Grammar
How to Use “signifiant” in a Sentence
The [linguistic/verbal] signifiant [for X] is...[Noun] functions as the signifiant for...a dissociation between signifiant and signifiéVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “signifiant” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- [Not applicable - it is a noun]
American English
- [Not applicable - it is a noun]
adverb
British English
- [Not applicable - it is a noun]
American English
- [Not applicable - it is a noun]
adjective
British English
- [Not applicable - it is a noun]
American English
- [Not applicable - it is a noun]
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not used.
Academic
Central term in linguistics, semiotics, literary theory, and cultural studies. Example: 'Lacan reinterpreted the Saussurean signifiant as having primacy over the signifié.'
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
Used precisely to denote the perceptible form (sound-pattern, written shape) of a linguistic sign.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “signifiant”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “signifiant”
- Using it as a synonym for 'significant' (important).
- Pronouncing it as English /sɪɡˈnɪfɪənt/.
- Using it outside of a semiotic or linguistic theory context.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. In English, it is a loanword with a specific technical meaning from linguistics. The English adjective 'significant' is 'significatif/significative' in French.
Use 'signifier' unless you are explicitly discussing Saussure, Lacan, or other theorists who use the French term, or if your discipline's convention favours it. 'Signifier' is the standard English translation.
A 'signifiant' is the form of a sign within a purely linguistic or semiotic system where the connection to its meaning (signifié) is arbitrary. A 'symbol' often implies a motivated or conventional relationship with what it represents (e.g., a dove symbolising peace).
In Saussure's theory, no. The sign is a psychic whole with two inseparable sides. A sound-pattern only becomes a signifiant when it is linked to a concept (signifié).
In linguistics, the signifier.
Signifiant is usually academic / technical in register.
Signifiant: in British English it is pronounced /ˌsiːnɪˈfjɒ̃/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌsinjɪˈfjɑ̃/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No established idioms for this technical term]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: SIGN-IF-I-ANT. The SIGN IF I can perceive it (hear/see it) is the SIGNIFIANT - the form, not the idea.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONTAINER FOR CONTENT (but the relationship is arbitrary); FORM IS A VEHICLE FOR MEANING.
Practice
Quiz
In which field is the term 'signifiant' primarily used?