descriptivism
Descriptivism is a linguistic approach that focuses on how language is actually used by speakers and writers in real-life situations. It emphasizes observing and documenting the various ways people communicate, rather than prescribing strict rules about how language should be used. This perspective acknowledges that language is dynamic and constantly evolving.
In contrast to prescriptivism, which advocates for specific grammatical rules and standards, descriptivism accepts that variations in language are natural and valid. Descriptivists study dialects, slang, and informal speech to understand the richness of human communication, reflecting the diversity of cultures and experiences.