Kontextabhängiger

Kontextabhängiger is a German adjective that translates to context-dependent. It describes something that derives its meaning, significance, or interpretation from the surrounding circumstances or situation. In linguistics, it refers to words or phrases whose meaning changes based on the context in which they are used. For example, the word "bank" can mean a financial institution or the side of a river, with its specific meaning being context-dependent.

Beyond language, the concept applies to many fields. In computer science, context-dependent data or processes are those that are influenced by the specific environment or state in which they operate. In psychology, behavior can be seen as context-dependent, with individuals acting differently depending on social cues, the environment, or their internal state. In philosophy, the meaning of concepts or judgments can be argued to be context-dependent, requiring an understanding of the broader framework or situation for full comprehension. The term emphasizes that isolation can lead to a misunderstanding or incomplete grasp of a subject, as its true nature is often revealed only within its specific setting.