What is semantic primes?

Semantic primes are basic concepts that cannot be further defined or broken down in meaning. They are the building blocks of language and thought, and are considered universal across different cultures. It is believed that there are approximately 60-70 semantic primes that are used to create meaning in all languages. Examples of semantic primes include time, space, quantity, movement, and people. These concepts are essential for communication and are used to express ideas, emotions, and intentions. The theory of semantic primes was developed by linguist Anna Wierzbicka, who argued that these basic concepts are the foundation of all human understanding and communication.