What does pragmatics study in language use?

Pragmatics is a branch of linguistics that focuses on understanding how language is used in context. It examines the ways in which context influences the interpretation of meaning, including the intentions of speakers and the social factors that affect communication. When studying pragmatics, one considers not only the literal meaning of words but also how meaning can change based on context, such as the relationship between speakers, the situation in which communication occurs, and the implied meanings that are understood beyond the literal interpretation.

This understanding is essential because language is not only a system of rules and sounds but also a tool for expressing thoughts, emotions, and intentions. In contrast, the other options focus on specific aspects of language: phonetics studies the sounds, grammar covers structural rules, and morphology deals with the formation of words. While these components are important for a comprehensive study of language, they do not encompass the nuanced understanding of meaning and context that pragmatics provides.