Two conjunctions have been used in above question. One is “that” and another is “by”. Both implies support.
- If we give priority to “by” then “E” seems more appropriate answer.
- But If we give priority to “that” then “C” seems more appropriate answer because
i) language is a “conspiracy” against experience implies it would be doing something negative.
ii) Plus If we reduce something into too many parts We may over complicate thing.
Hence “C” seems more appropriate answer as It will fit both contexts perfectly. No? And why are we prioritising “by” over “that”??
No, idea about grammar and stuff (probably tag Greg ) but this question was a true beauty from GRE peeps. I spent a good chunk of a day understanding it back when I was preparing for the exam.
“Any language is a conspiracy against experience…”
This opening paints language in a somewhat negative role against “experience.” The term “conspiracy” suggests that language, while a valuable tool, might not fully or faithfully capture the essence of raw experience. It implies that there’s a trade-off when we use language to describe our experiences.
“…in the sense that it is a collective attempt to ________ experience…”
This portion introduces the idea that language isn’t just an individual’s tool but a collective one. The blank here asks for a word that explains what we collectively try to do with experiences using language.
“…by reducing it into discrete parcels.”
This part gives insight into the mechanics of the “conspiracy.” Language, in its essence, takes the vast, continuous, and often overlapping realm of human experience and breaks it down into manageable, distinct units: words, phrases, sentences. This “reduction” is necessary for communication but inevitably means some nuances of raw experience get lost.
In sum, the author is trying to highlight the inherent tension in using language to convey experience. While language allows us to share, relate, and connect with others, it also simplifies and segments experiences, sometimes losing the full depth and richness of the original sensation or emotion. The author is emphasizing both the power and limitations of linguistic expression.
Eg: Being in love
