ABSTRACT
Another technique in Wittgenstein’s method of grammatical investigation is the use of language-games. He uses the term ‘language-game’ to describe a variety of different kinds of language and different processes resembling language. The term ‘language-game’ refers variously to (i) the games by means of which children learn their native language, (ii) primitive languages, (iii) simple exercises used during the teaching of language, and (iv) ‘the whole’, consisting of language and the actions into which it is woven (PI 7). Wittgenstein’s description and use of language-games allows us to study the phenomena of language in primitive kinds of application in which we can command a clear view of the aim and functioning of words (PI 5). His use of language-games provides a particular and specific form of investigation.
