In the context of language, what does the term "pragmatics" include?

Pragmatics refers specifically to the use of language in social contexts and involves understanding how context influences the interpretation of meaning. This encompasses how people use language in communicative situations, including how they convey and interpret meaning based on context, the relationship between speakers, and cultural norms.

In pragmatics, we look at how people understand implied meanings, jokes, politeness, and conversational turn-taking, among other aspects. For example, saying "Could you pass the salt?" in a dinner setting is not just a question about the ability to do so, but is rather an indirect way of making a request. This is a key aspect of how language functions in real-world interactions.

The other choices focus on different aspects of language. For instance, understanding syntax rules pertains more to grammar and structure rather than social use. First language acquisition processes relate to how children learn their native language, while writing conventions involve the mechanics of writing rather than spoken or social language use.