Words have no intrinsic meaning. Words mean whatever we decide they mean. If we decide the same combination of sounds can mean different things, that's what happens.
"Zero2Cool" wrote:
If words have no intrinsic meaning why have words at all?
"Nonstopdrivel" wrote:
Actually, we probably have words *because* they have no intrinsic meaning. Since a combination of letters is, by itself, just a combination of letters, we can assign meaning to it in a way or ways with much less confusion as to what we are talking about. That is, your problem with the word "second" can be the exception, rather than the rule.
When we on this list see a word like "Packers", for example, we don't have to every time think about "what is P-A-C-K-E-R-ness?" we immediately associate certain signs, certain meanings to that six letter combo. We don't have to think, we just "know" to think "green and gold", "God's team," "the team than any intelligent being cheers for" etc.
Sometimes, of course, those signs conflict, of course. Witness your example of "second." You often see really good writers, for example, get hamstrung by words in mid-sentence when, in attempting to use word #2 with some word #1, which they've probably done thousands of times before, their brain remembers an alternate meaning of word #1, and says to them, "What the fuck? These words don't go together. Hey, what does word #2 mean again."
You see, Zero, the problem here is that you are too smart. If you were a dumbfuck like the rest of us, instead of this very bright dude, you'd use the word "second" without batting an eye. 🙂
And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.
Romans 12:2 (NKJV)