ordinary language games

Ordinary language games refer to the idea that language functions like a set of different activities or "games," each with its own rules and purpose, depending on the context. For example, giving directions, making a joke, or asking a question are all different language games that serve specific social functions. This concept emphasizes that understanding language requires recognizing how words are used in particular situations, rather than seeing language as just a set of fixed definitions. In essence, meaning arises from how language is used in real-life interactions rather than from an abstract dictionary.