Understanding language requires grasping its various uses from "summary" of Philosophical Investigations by Ludwig Wittgenstein
To understand language, we must look beyond mere definitions and rules. Language is not a fixed code with one meaning for each word. Instead, it is a dynamic tool used in various ways depending on the context. Each word can have multiple uses and meanings, which are determined by how it is used in different situations. For example, the word "game" can refer to a physical activity, a competitive sport, or even a strategy in a business context. The meaning of the word is not inherent in its definition but is derived from how it is utilized in different contexts. To truly understand language, we must grasp these various uses and be able to navigate them fluidly. Moreover, language is not just about communication but also about action. When we use language, we are not just expressing thoughts or ideas but also engaging in a form of activity. For instance, when we give someone a command, we are not just conveying information but also prompting them to do something. Language is thus intertwined with our actions and intentions, and to understand it fully, we must acknowledge this connection. Furthermore, language is not a solitary activity but a social one. When we speak, we are not speaking into a void but to an audience. Our words are shaped by our interactions with others and are meant to be understood by them. Therefore, understanding language requires not just an individual grasp of its various uses but also an awareness of its social dimensions.- To truly understand language, we must go beyond surface-level definitions and rules and delve into the multiplicity of its uses. Language is not a static entity but a dynamic tool that is shaped by context, action, and social interaction. Only by recognizing and embracing these aspects can we truly grasp the essence of language.
