Contextual Theory of Meaning

The Contextual Theory of Meaning suggests that an individual's understanding of a word or phrase depends on the situation and environment in which it is used. Meaning isn't fixed solely by dictionary definitions but is shaped by the context—including cultural, social, and conversational factors. For example, the word "bank" can mean a financial institution or the side of a river, depending on the situation. This theory emphasizes that meaning is dynamic and influenced by surrounding circumstances, helping us interpret language more accurately based on how and where it’s used.