What do we call the ability to use language appropriately in different social contexts?

The ability to use language appropriately in different social contexts is referred to as pragmatic competence. This concept encompasses understanding the social rules and norms governing language use, such as tone, context, and relationships between speakers and listeners. It allows individuals to convey meaning effectively and navigate various conversational situations, adapting their language based on factors like formality, politeness, and cultural nuances. Pragmatic competence is essential for effective communication, as it goes beyond mere grammatical correctness and focuses on how language operates within social interactions.

The other terms mentioned relate to different aspects of language proficiency. Grammatical competence pertains to a person's understanding of syntax, morphology, and phonology—the formal elements of language. Discourse competence involves the ability to organize and connect sentences in a coherent manner, facilitating meaningful communication over longer stretches of text or speech. Strategic competence refers to the capacity to use communication strategies to compensate for gaps in knowledge or to enhance communication; this could involve paraphrasing or asking for clarification. Each of these competences plays a vital role in language use, but pragmatic competence specifically addresses the importance of appropriateness in social context.