Understanding the Limitations of Innovative Language

The English language, much like any other form of communication, is a dynamic and evolving system. As such, it frequently introduces new words and phrases to express emerging ideas and concepts. However, is it always beneficial to create new words, or should we stick to the existing ones for clarity and accuracy?

For instance, the concept of 'appreciatable' is an intriguing one. While it might seem intuitive to coin such a word, expressing appreciation in a straightforward manner is often more effective. Consider the sentence, 'I appreciate well-written concise answers on Quora' instead of 'I find well-written concise answers on Quora to be appreciatable.' This not only sounds more natural but also avoids confusion with the existing word 'appreciable.'

Consequences of Using Invented Words

Using invented words can have several drawbacks. For one, it may lead to awkward phrasing, hindering clear communication. Additionally, there is a risk of confusion, taking the example of 'appreciatable' which could be easily mistaken for 'appreciable,' another term with a similar but distinct meaning. As highlighted in the sentence, 'There are a few appreciable answers on Quora that are long-winded and poorly written,' the correct word to use is 'appreciable' as it conveys the meaning of something significant or noticeable.

Moreover, innovation in language should always serve the purpose of enhancing clarity and precision. When we try to force new words into the lexicon, it can often backfire. It is better to rely on more straightforward and universally understood terms, as suggested by the common phrase, 'something that is appreciated' or 'those things which are appreciated.' These alternatives are inherently clear and do not risk causing confusion.

Valuing Existing Academic Vocabulary

When confronted with the need to express complex or nuanced ideas, it is wise to turn to the wealth of academic vocabulary available. For example, if you wish to express the idea of something being worth appreciation, you could use the phrasing 'something that is appreciated' or 'those things which are appreciated.' These are concise and effective alternatives that are more likely to be understood by a broader audience.

It is also important to recognize that the introduction of new words should not be left to individual whims but should adhere to a certain level of acceptance within the language community. Inventing words that are essentially meaningless or confusing, like 'mortifrackable expressions' or 'nexorticious and incompredundancies,' can lead to unnecessary cognitive load and misunderstandings. Wordplay and creativity in language should be used judiciously and with an aim to enhance clarity and communication.

The Role of Empathy in Effective Communication

The concept of empathy is another aspect of effective communication. As depicted in the excerpt from the original answer, empathy can be defined as perceiving someone's internal frame of reference, understanding the world as they do, putting oneself in the person's shoes, and then communicating this perception to them. This skill is distinct from sympathy, which involves feeling sorry for someone's situation.

Empathy, a crucial aspect of meaningful and relatable communication, is not something that can be easily achieved by merely making an effort to do so. It requires genuine understanding and perceptiveness. Efforts to force empathy or make it easier to convey do not typically yield the desired results. Therefore, it is essential to focus on building and nurturing genuine empathy through personal experiences and interactions rather than attempting to artificially create it.

In conclusion, while inventing new words can be a fascinating linguistic exercise, it is often more beneficial to stick to established vocabulary for clarity and precision. Always choose the words that best convey your thoughts and intentions without causing confusion. Effective communication, whether through language or other means, requires a deep understanding of the nuances of expression.