Which aspect of language is concerned with the social use of language?

Pragmatics is the branch of linguistics that focuses on the social use of language, including how context influences meaning and how individuals adjust their language according to social situations. It encompasses understanding nuances such as tone, intent, and the relationship between speakers, which are critical for effective communication in social interactions. This aspect of language is essential for understanding not just what is said but how it is received and interpreted based on social cues.

Morphology, while concerned with the structure of words and the formation of word components, does not address language in its social context. Syntax pertains to the rules and structure that govern sentence formation but again lacks the social dimension that pragmatics covers. Phonology deals with the sound systems of languages and the patterns of sounds without engaging the social implications of language use. Thus, pragmatics is the key aspect that addresses how language functions within social interactions.