semantic error
[səˈmæntɪk ˈɛrər]
nounpl: semantic errors
erro semântico
1. A programming or linguistic error where the code or text is syntactically correct but does not mean what the programmer or writer intended; the logic or meaning is flawed despite proper grammar and structure
The program compiled without errors, but it contained a semantic error that caused it to calculate the wrong result.
O programa compilou sem erros, mas continha um erro semântico que o fez calcular o resultado incorreto.
2. In linguistics, an error in the meaning or interpretation of words or phrases rather than in their grammatical structure
Saying 'the colorless green ideas sleep furiously' is a semantic error because the phrase makes no logical sense.
Dizer 'as ideias verdes incolores dormem furiosamente' é um erro semântico porque a frase não faz sentido lógico.
This is technical terminology commonly used in computer science education, software development, and linguistics across both Brazilian Portuguese and American English-speaking communities. In Brazil, it's standard terminology in tech companies and universities. The distinction between semantic errors and syntax errors is fundamental to understanding programming and computational thinking.
Related Idioms & Phrases
the code looks right but does the wrong thing
it compiles but it's wrong
right syntax, wrong meaning
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