What does the term semantic refer to?

The term "semantic" is related to the meaning of words, phrases, and sentences in language. It involves understanding how meaning is constructed from individual words and how they combine to convey more complex ideas in a given context. This aspect of language is crucial for effective communication, as semantics helps in interpreting information and understanding nuances in meaning.

The other options focus on different components of language. For instance, speed of reading pertains to fluency and the pace at which text is processed, while structure refers to the grammatical arrangement of words and sentences. Emotional tone embodies the feelings or attitudes expressed in a text, rather than the meaning itself. Thus, choice B is the most accurate representation of what "semantic" refers to, highlighting its connection to meaning.