Select three of the following characteristics of language: (1) Words are symbols with meanings. (2) Words have denotative and connotative meanings. (3) Words reflect concrete and abstract meanings. (4) Words are culture bound. (5) Words are context bound. Then, in a well-supported answer, address (1) what it means, and (2) why it is important for an effective communicator to understand that concept. A superior answer will contain illustrations that are original and not in the textbook.
What will be an ideal response?
(Student examples will vary.) 1) Words are symbols with meanings: symbols stand for something else. When you use a symbol, you attach a meaning to it. Others who hear the symbol attach a meaning to it as well. Communicators should be aware of this because this implies the possibility that people will not use the same meanings, or bypass each other's meanings. (2) Denotative meanings are literal meanings that are used by most people who speak the language. Connotative meanings are more personal and subjective. This is an important distinction because our denotative meanings help us communicate more clearly, but sometimes being explicit about our connotative meanings helps others to see a special message we are trying to communicate. Understanding the difference helps us adapt to others. (3) Words reflect abstract and concrete meanings. Concrete meanings are tied to our senses; abstract words are not. If our purpose is to communicate clearly, the more concrete our language, the better chance we have of success. (4) Words are culture bound. We learn our words and the uses of those words from the people in our culture. We should take cultural and co-cultural differences into account with adapting to another person. (5) Words are context bound. We attach a meaning to a word based on the context in which it is used. Therefore, it is important to look at the context to help us (understand the communication of others. In addition, it is important to avoid taking statements out of context.
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