What is the primary focus of pragmatics in language use?

Pragmatics centers on the context and use of language within social interactions, making it essential for understanding how meaning is constructed in specific situations. This includes how context influences our interpretation of spoken or written language, taking into account factors such as the speaker's intent, the relationship between the communicators, and cultural norms. For instance, pragmatics explores how a simple phrase can convey different meanings based on who is speaking, to whom they are speaking, and the circumstances surrounding the conversation.

This focus on context distinguishes pragmatics from other aspects of language study. While word order pertains to syntax, the meaning of words is related to semantics, and the structure of words fits within morphology. Pragmatics, therefore, emphasizes the social and functional use of language, highlighting the importance of understanding communication in real-life interactions.