The concept of language is quite interesting. Developed in order to communicate with others, we use language or see it being used everyday. Whether it’s a simple “I’m home,” or a long post on the internet saying what they feel.
Rather, it attempts to. Words cannot convey exactly what we are thinking or feeling. One of the limitations of language is that there are only so many words and phrases. Not every feeling or thought can be expressed because of this obvious limitation. And although language continued to evolve to try to overcome this problem, there is little possibility of it reaching that point.
Moreover, the knowledge of the person speaking or writing limits their respective use of language. A five-year-old would (in most cases) be worse at conveying their feelings than a grown adult. And even between adults, the level of education greatly affects the use of language. Or in the case of Zaimokuza, his use of obscure kanji make it so that no one can understand his writings.
Another limit is the connotations that society imposes on certain words. Synonyms, while having very similar meanings, are often associated with very different things. “Combat” seems very official, like military combat or combatting a disease. On the other hand, “fight” seems more personal, like two brothers fighting.
However, the biggest limitation on our use of language is human imperfection. Accidentally using the wrong word or misunderstanding what someone means could be fatal to the conversation and, potentially, the relationship. Saying things we don’t mean, or mishearing something can also prevent us from achieving perfect communication.
Even more to this point, people can use language to lie. Lying greatly affects relationships and knowledge. If we can’t tell someone is lying, then we will believe what that person is saying as truth. If we know someone is lying, that thought lies in the back of our heads, making us doubt everything that person says.
Language doesn’t instantly transmit feelings. Language doesn’t always convey facts. Language can be misused. Language greatly differs from person to person. Yet we still use it. We rely on it heavily to communicate with each other.
While imperfect in many ways, language remains and continues to grow. And everyday, people misuse it in one way or another. Sadly, there’s only one way to avoid misunderstandings and lies conveyed through language, though I cannot condone it.
Never communicate with anyone at all.
charleswayn 