10. “Understanding a word” – being able to apply it. –“when I said ‘I can play chess’ I really could.” How did I know that I could? My answer will show in what way I use the word “can”.
Being able is a state. “To describe a state” can mean various things. “After all I can’t have the whole mode of application of a word in my head all at once.”
understanding a word – is being able to see it as a possible of use
or if you like – to recognize its possibilities – possibilities of use
when I said ‘I can play chess’ – I really could.’ – how did I know I could?
my answer – may well show how I use the word ‘can’ – in this circumstance
and as for the ‘showing’ here – that will open to interpretation – to the interpretation of whoever I make this showing to
and their ‘interpretations’ will be open to question
‘Being able is a state. “To describe a state” can mean various things. “After all I can’t have the whole mode of application of a word in my head all at once.” ’
what we are describing here is an action
and an action can be described in any number of way
description is propositional action
and any propositional action –
is open to question
© greg t. charlton. 2014.