Term

Neurolinguistic Programming

Definition of Neurolinguistic Programming Neurolinguistic Programming, or NLP, is a bit like having a manual for the way your mind works. Just like how you control a video game character with a controller, NLP says you can control how you act by using special tricks with your language and thoughts. Think of it this way: Your mind is like a big library with lots of books. Each book has instructions... »

Phenomenology

Simple Definitions of Phenomenology So, what is phenomenology? Firstly, imagine phenomenology as your own personal detective work into the experiences you have every day. It’s digging into questions like: “Why do certain songs make me feel sad?” or “What is it about the ocean that makes me feel calm?” Phenomenology is a way of exploring and explaining those things we ... »

Theology

Definition of Theology Theology is like digging into the biggest questions about the universe, looking at faith and the idea of God or gods. It’s a quest to figure out things like “why are we here?” and “is there more than just this life?” The bigger picture of theology involves understanding the variety of ways people express and live by their spiritual beliefs, and how th... »

Axiology

Definition of Axiology Axiology is like a big, adventurous quest to figure out what things in life are super important and precious. Imagine you have a treasure map, but instead of searching for gold or diamonds, you’re searching for things that make your life and the world better — sort of like your personal values. Axiology is that map, showing you where to look and how to find these speci... »

Applied Ethics

What is Applied Ethics? Think about a situation where you have to choose between telling the truth, which might hurt someone’s feelings, or keeping a secret to make them happy. Deciding what to do in that moment is where applied ethics comes in. It’s the part of the big subject of ethics that is all about using our ideas of right and wrong in the real world. We use applied ethics to fi... »

Critical Theory

Definition of Critical Theory Critical Theory is a way of understanding and looking at the world that helps us seek improvements and social change. It’s like having a map that doesn’t only show where things are but also shows the hidden roads and barriers that affect people’s journeys through life. This theory doesn’t just accept how the world is; it digs deep to find out i... »

Syntax

Simple Definitions of Syntax Syntax is the set of rules in a language that arranges words into sentences. Like putting together a puzzle, each piece, or word, has a specific place so that the picture, or meaning, is clear. These rules guide us on where to place subjects, verbs, adjectives, and other parts of speech to create sentences that make sense to everyone reading them. Another way to think ... »

Semantics

Semantics Explained What is Semantics? Semantics is essentially the science of meaning. It’s like being a detective whose specialty is language. Let’s say you find a word or phrase at the scene of a conversation. Your job is to figure out what it really means. For instance, if someone says, “That’s sick!” are they talking about someone being ill, or are they actually ... »

Linguistics

Simple Definitions of Linguistics Linguistics is like the science lab of languages where you explore and find out why we talk and write the way we do. It looks at how words make friends with each other and why sometimes they seem to follow rules, and other times, not so much. Another way to look at linguistics is by thinking of it as the toolbox your brain uses for language. It helps us to fix com... »

Philosophy of Language

What is Philosophy of Language? The Philosophy of Language is like a puzzle that explores how communication works. It’s a study that digs deep into how we use words and sentences to express our thoughts and feel connected to others. People who study this are like detectives, looking for clues to answer big questions such as “What does this word mean?” and “How do words link... »