Struggling to find the word you want to say can be frustrating, for both the person with aphasia and their communication partners.

That’s where Semantic Feature Analysis (SFA) comes in. This evidence-based strategy helps improve word-finding by activating key features of a target word. It’s a powerful tool we use in therapy to support communication and independence.

What Is Semantic Feature Analysis?

Semantic Feature Analysis is a word-retrieval technique that teaches individuals to describe the meaning of a word based on its characteristics or features. By tapping into related information, it helps strengthen the brain’s connections and improve access to vocabulary.

This strategy is especially helpful for individuals with anomic aphasia (word finding difficulty type of aphasia) or those who experience naming difficulties following stroke, other neurological conditions, changes, or injury.

Simple Steps to Practice SFA

Try using these seven guiding questions when practicing a target word. 

You can write

them out or talk through them:

1. What is it? (Definition)

2. What does it do? (Function)

3. Where do you find it? (Location)

4. What does it look like? (Shape, size, color)

5. What group is it in? (Category)

6. What are its parts? (Components)

7. What’s something similar? Or “What does it remind you of?” (Associations)

Example: Target word = “Apple”

• It’s fruit.

• You eat it.

• Found in grocery stores or orchards.

• It’s round and red or green.

• It’s in the fruit category.

• It has skin, seeds, and a stem.

• Like a pear or peach.Even if the person can’t say the word right away, activating these features can help them get closer, or offer a different way to reach the target.

Why We Love SFA

At Iowa Speech Solutions, we use SFA as a flexible, person-centered approach. It can be used with picture cards, a whiteboard, computer/tele-health and more. It’s a great way to target functional words in the person’s world. With regular practice, clients often see improvement not just in naming, but in confidence and communication success.

#AphasiaTherapy #WordFindingHelp #SemanticFeatureAnalysis #SLPStrategies

#IowaSpeechSolutions #CommunicationMatters #NeuroRehabSpeech

References:

• Boyle, M., & Coelho, C. (1995). Semantic feature analysis treatment for anomia in

aphasia. Aphasiology, 9(4), 321–338.

• National Aphasia Association – www.aphasia.org

• ASHA Practice Portal – www.asha.org

Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. It does not replace evaluation or treatment by a licensed SLP or physician in your state or country. Always consult a qualified provider before starting any therapy.