SEMANTIC NOISE

Definition of Semantic Noise

- refers to anything related to the meaning of words that masks a
message and confuses the listener ( for example; a speaker’s use of
foreign language, someone’s limited vocabulary).
- it is the type of communication that occurs when the sender and
the receiver have different meanings of the word, symbols, or
actions used in the message.
Semantic noise arises when there is confusion over the meaning of words and may
be grammatical, autochthonous (cultural), complex, or technical in nature.
This type of noise tends to be caused by speakers who transmit information that
contains abstract concepts, improper context, professional jargon, regional
colloquialisms, and grammatical or technical errors.
An example of semantic noise are doctors who communicate to patients using
medical terminology, may find that the patient is unable to understand them.
Semantic noise doesn't involve sound but rather ambiguity in
words, sentences or other symbols used in communication. The
differences in interpretation can be quite small, even
undetectable, in regular communication between people from
the same culture, age, education and experience, or drastically
different because of such things as culture, age or experience.
 Types of Semantic Noise
Linguistic Ambiguity
Multiple meanings for the same word or phrase.
E.g., "bank" (financial institution vs. river bank).
Syntax Errors
Incorrect sentence structure affecting meaning.
E.g., "Let's eat, Grandma." vs. "Let's eat Grandma."
Jargon and Technical Terms
Specialized vocabulary causing confusion for non-experts.
E.g., medical terminology in patient explanations.
 Strategies for Lessening Semantic Noise
Clarity in Communication
-Use simple and precise language.
-Define terms and jargon when necessary.
Context Enhancement
-Provide additional context to avoid misinterpretations.
-Clarify ambiguous statements.
Cross-Cultural Sensitivity
-Understand cultural nuances when communicating globally.
-Seek feedback to ensure clarity.
 Real World Examples
• The word “weed” can be interpreted as an undesirable plant in a
yard or as a euphemism for marijuana.
• The "OK" hand gesture is harmless in many countries, but in
some cultures, it's considered offensive.
• In the 1970s, Chevrolet introduced the car model "Nova" in Latin
American countries. In Spanish, "no va" means "it doesn't go."
The name led to poor sales due to the perception that the car was
unreliable.
 REFERENCES:
Source 1: Oral Communication in Context book (2019 ed)

Source 2: Communication Concepts (https://fourweekmba.com/noise-in-

communication/)

Source 3: Quora (https://www.quora.com/What-is-semantic-noise-in-

communication)

Source 4: Semantic Barriers of Communication: Examples & How to Tackle It

(https://clearinfo.in/blog/semantic-barriers-of-communication/#:~:text=Exampl
es%20include%20ambiguity%2C%20jargon%2C%20cultural,understanding
%2C%20interpretation%2C%20and%20context.)