Over time language can shift contexts lose all original meaning and become an implementation of symbolism

#### Over time language can shift contexts, lose all original meaning, and become an implementation of symbolism --- Pieces of language can transcend subcultures and lose their original context like using `/rant` when referring to the end of a rant-like post. Unknowingly the forward slash is used as an indication of ending the rant but this is done without knowledge of _"Why a forward slash? what does that signify?"_... In truth it is a reference to [[HTML 1]] syntax where the matching closing tag is terminated with a forward slash: `<html>My Document</html>`. This is a prime example of a piece of language completely transcending its original context for a new one, and no longer sequestered in its original subculture of the technically inclined. Instead this is now a common usage to indicate the cessation of an act or event and is now an implemented combination of symbolism and reference. Without the knowledge of HTML the forward slash lacks context and is completely meaningless to the individual. Combined with the word rant one may begin to infer the new meaning just based on context clues. It is unfortunate there is no `<rant></rant>` tag pair in [[HTML 1]] as that would make this explanation vastly easier. Additionally, `/s` for *"sarcasm"* to indicate at the end of the post that you were speaking sarcastically. --- Tags: [[Lingustics]] - [[Culture]] - [[DevLog/Notes/DevLog/Templates/Language]] Reference: Related: - [[Usage of Emojis in text based communications are a useful adaptation to the loss of voice tone and body language feedback]]