To start describing words and their operational definitions* in the English language, I first feel the need to lay down a disclaimer* about language and vernacular* itself.
Realistically, language changes all the time. I still remember being in middle school and struggling with the acceptance of “literally” into our vernacular to mean “figuratively”. You know, literally it’s exact opposite. Language can be fun like that. English, I would argue, even more so at times. All the words that are spelled the same, pronounced differently, and represent completely different concepts. Ugh.
I can’t blame English teachers or classic literature for teaching the frequent use of “should” or “have to”, but (another word I’ll get to) some words show voice and character in written prose that we would all do better without in real life. The echoes of these words in our heads influence realities and moral judgments of ourselves. It’s such a small part of therapeutic work, and it’s a change you can start making for yourself without any intervention.
So yes, we change how semantics and pragmatics work day to day, and vernacular changes year to year (see slang changes between Millennials and Gen Z). However, words also impact our own beliefs about ourselves (and others, but let’s just focus on you right now). This makes it inherently worth exploring and challenging the use of language in all contexts.
If you’re up for the adventure, join me as I wax poetic about random bits of language that I wish we would stop using for healthier mental health.
Ps. Wrote “language” too many times. It no longer looks like a word. Oops.
*
operational definitions – defining words based on their contexts. We use this phrase a lot in research.
disclaimer – typically denying responsibility. I’m using it more as “a warning”, which is not it’s intended use. But you get what I’m saying.
vernacular – the language commonly used among ordinary people. I love this word. I try to squeeze it in wherever I can. It’s just a fun one
