Tok Essay – Examine the Role of Language in Facilitating or Hindrancing Communication.

and science, enabling us to effectively convey abstract concepts. Initially, I believed that experiencing deja vu, the sense of familiarity in an unfamiliar situation, was exclusive to me. Nevertheless, my mother enlightened me about its importance, revealing that I lacked the ability to articulate this peculiar sensation before. Due to doubting whether others would regard it seriously, I refrained from seeking clarification.

Understanding that this feeling has a specific word allows me to comprehend its naturalness and universality. Nonetheless, there are instances when language not only fails to facilitate effective communication but also generates confusion. This is exemplified by the phrase "one picture equals a thousand words". Describing a grassland with a cliff may seem straightforward since these are familiar visuals that we can readily imagine.

Trying to convey the scent and taste of a dish, the melody of a song, or the breathtaking beauty of an indescribable image such as a brilliant exploding star to someone who has never experienced satellite imagery is quite difficult. It's a struggle to capture the full essence using words alone. The same goes for trying to communicate the genuine essence of a dish or the profound impact of gazing upon a photograph of a star. In certain situations, nonverbal communication proves superior in effectively conveying messages compared to verbal communication.

When driving, a pedestrian may notice your hand signaling the road instead of being able to lip-read if your windows are closed. This is comparable to how love can be conveyed through a simple glance, despite the belief that words are the most powerful means of expressing it. Ultimately, there are instances where language is vital for swift communication and immediate

comprehension of the speaker's intentions.

While language is commonly used for communication, body language and the five senses are often more effective in accurately conveying information. It is important to recognize that there are alternative methods apart from language to connect with others. In my opinion, language has substantial influence and can be improved by introducing specific terminology to clarify previously ambiguous concepts. This advancement would enhance our overall communication.