You are just playing word games

Posted by Jim on December 29, 2001

In Reply to: You are just playing word games posted by P on December 26, 2001

: If someone is said to be 'just playing word games' and they are obviously not playing scrabble or doing a crossword, what are they actually doing or what are they being accused of doing? I am looking for a definition and example.

Sophists plays word games. So do writers, advertisers and governments. Intent determines effect. Deceitful "word games" only serve the deceiver and invites correction or condemnation. Orwell's "1984" or "Animal Farm" demonstrate the ease and evil of using language deceitfully. Delightful "word games" enrich all.