Language is often perceived as definitive, with a word’s definition being its sole meaning. However, this is not always the case. People can interpret the same word differently, just as they can perceive the same event in various ways. Language is subjective, yet few people recognize this, and even fewer understand the consequences. The emotional associations we have with words, rather than the words themselves, contribute to this phenomenon. Acknowledging this is the first step towards healing the divisions in our globally connected society.

For instance, starting a sentence with “feminist” can polarize readers, as their perception of what constitutes a feminist will guide their interpretation of the rest of the sentence. Their understanding of the term will likely be based on their real-world experiences with feminists and the emotions these encounters elicit. Thus, the dictionary definition becomes secondary, and the clarity of communication is compromised.

Political jargon faces a similar issue, with people forming strong emotions about ideological terms regardless of their actual knowledge of the ideology. For example, the word “capitalism” is often associated with an oppressive and unfair system, even though it encompasses what many people aspire to achieve. Such misconceptions stifle debate, as people may not be clear about what they are actually upset about, even in their own minds.

The same holds true for other political terms, such as communism, socialism, and various party names. In the 21st century, politics has become a primary identity marker for many people, leading them to form instant reactions to certain words. This emotional response to language can hinder rational thought and impede progress in addressing issues.

Swear words are another example of how language can elicit strong emotions. Swear words are merely sounds or images on a page, yet humans have trained themselves to associate these with rudeness. The meanings of words, even within a single language, are not universal, which can create confusion and misunderstanding in our interconnected world.

Small, vocal groups have attempted to change the language to align with their emotional responses to certain words. However, this gentrification of language can create confusion and diminish our ability to communicate effectively. Writers face the challenge of navigating these emotional associations while trying to maintain clear and engaging prose.

It is crucial for all of us to recognize that everyone has different definitions of words in their minds, based on their experiences and the emotions they evoke. When someone speaks, it is essential to consider their intended message rather than our interpretation of their words. By being willing to critically examine our own reactions to language and question whether our responses are rational or conditioned, we can work towards bridging the divides that language creates. Only then can we ensure that when we disagree with someone, it is the issue at hand that divides us, not the language itself.