Many words and phrases in the English language are ambiguous, meaning that they are able to fit many different possible meanings and are subject to change meaning depending on how it is used. I personally hate that, because it causes a lot of conflict and confusion in my daily life. When people say things or ask questions that are very vague, I'm left to do more work in my mind trying to figure out 'What is it exactly that they want or asking for?' I NEED MORE DETAIL! An example of a vague question that I recently encountered was: "What are your strengths?" It was understood that I was being asked about my leadership skill strengths due to the fact that I was in a leadership conference, but this is an overall vague question. An answer given could be based on someone's physical strength which would be completely off topic.
Relationships is also an area in which people are very vague. There is a song by Mike Posner entitled "Ambiguous". In this song, Mike is confused with what his girl wants, whether she wants to stay as friends with benefits or move on towards a relationship.
I totally agree with you about the fact that words have so many different meanings and its irritating sometimes, especially in text messages. Not only are they usually short and confusing but they always seem to make you wonder if how they would have said it in person. Are they joking or are they really mad at me?
ReplyDeleteIt seems like so much of what we converse about is really vague. Like you said about the strengths question, it could mean all sorts of things. It's no wonder people who's second language is English have such a hard time speaking and understanding what others are saying.
Yes! Text messages can be super confusing! Nowadays, texting is very popular even in third world countries! Things can be misinterpreted and conflicts can occur. Everyone needs to learn how to be clear!
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