What is a semantic error in programming?

A semantic error in programming occurs when the syntax of the code is correct, and the program runs without crashing, but the logic or meaning of the code leads to incorrect results. This type of error often arises from misunderstandings of how particular functions work, incorrect assumptions in the algorithm design, or failing to handle edge cases properly.

For example, if a programmer intends to calculate the average of a set of numbers but mistakenly uses summation instead of division to compute the result, the code will run without any errors but will produce an incorrect value for the average. Such errors do not prevent the program from executing, which distinguishes them from syntax errors or runtime errors that cause immediate failure. Understanding semantic errors is crucial for debugging and ensuring that a program produces the desired outcomes.