the literal meaning 字面意思(名词)
The literal meaning of "telephone" is "far-away sound". telephone的字面意思是“远处的声音”。
The word has a metaphorical as well as a literal meaning. 这个单词除了字面意思还有一层比喻意思。
the conveyance of meaning 表达意思(名词)/ convey meaning 表达意思(动词)
Facial expressions are part of the conveyance of meaning. 面部表情也是在表达意思。
We convey meaning not only by our words but also by our actions. 我不仅靠语言来表达意思,也通过行为来表达意思。