Word Wars- Part 2
by Dr. Coach Love
Continuing from Part 1…
In considering the miscommunication situation described, some readers may say, “it’s only a matter of semantics.” Well, of course! We communicate using semantics! Semantics are the meanings that we attach to words. If we do not have the same semantics as our listener (meanings for words we say and hear) then we cannot communicate. Webster is not the authority here. We are each our own authority on what we mean and understand in our communication with others.
Our words become a foreign language when our meaning is mismatched to our listener’s understanding. We miscommunicate AS A PAIR OF COMMUNICATORS when what one intends, is not what the other understands, despite any accurate recall of words used. Arguing about semantics does not improve communication, but is a sidetrack to an issue of who is right and wrong. Listening and understanding checks clarify communication.
End the word wars. Stop using words as weapons of mass destruction and distortion of communication.
That’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
Regards,
Dr. Coach Love
MORE INFO LINKS: Lists-Word Wars Tips; Posts- Pt1 6-7-08
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