IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Literature
Vol. 14 No. 1 (2026): IDEAS: Journal on English Language Teaching and Learning, Linguistics and Lite

The Role of Context in Semantic Interpretation: Analyzing Ambiguity and Polysemy in English Discourse

Salsa Sabilla Alin Safitri (Ilmu Pendidikan, Universitas Muhammadiyah Tangerang)
Nargis (Ilmu Pendidikan, Universitas Muhammadiyah Tangerang)
Asep Suhendar (Ilmu Pendidikan, Universitas Muhammadiyah Tangerang)



Article Info

Publish Date
04 Jul 2026

Abstract

This research investigates the role of context in the semantic interpretation of ambiguity and polysemy in English news discourse. Using a qualitative descriptive approach and content analysis method, the study examines four selected news articles from BBC News and NBC News. The analysis identifies four main categories of ambiguity: contextual, type, relationship meaning, and source ambiguity. The most dominant type is contextual ambiguity, which often arises due to insufficient background information or vague expressions. The findings highlight how ambiguity and polysemy can hinder accurate interpretation and impact public understanding. Context proves crucial in determining meaning, especially in complex or sensitive news topics such as gender, crime, and environmental issues. This study emphasizes the need for media to present information transparently and for readers to be critically aware of linguistic nuances. The findings also contribute to improving communication effectiveness in translation, cross-cultural understanding, and natural language processing.

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

ideas

Publisher

Subject

Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

IDEAS Journal is published twice a year in the months of June and December (P-ISSN 2338-4778 and E-ISSN 2548-4192); it presents articles on English language teaching and learning, linguistics, and literature. The contents include analyses, studies and application of theories, research report, ...