The internet is packed with jokes that say, "Send this to your friend without saying anything." It could be a cat riding a horse or a picture of a person dressed as a superhero attempting to fly with an umbrella. These pics are funny and take us aback.
However, context matters. And quite a bit. It is important because it gives us the background info we need to understand things correctly. It's simply that in its absence, situations can take a hilariously bizarre turn. Enter the world of 'Images That Need More Context,' an Instagram account brimming with such moments. We've curated our top picks from this account, inviting you to venture into a realm where pixels flirt with mystery and snapshots stir up a storm of questions.
This post may include affiliate links.
Pictures without context can make you laugh because they're surprising and weird. The same can be said for the posts on the 'Images That Need More Context' Instagram account. When you see a random or unfamiliar image, your brain comes up with ideas to explain it. This surprise and imagination are what makes them funny.
But context plays an important role. In communication, it is crucial. You can't go a day without someone communicating with you. In those moments, it's really important for the message we get to be clear and easy to understand. It's quite frustrating to hear something that doesn't make sense! So, how do we make sure others understand what we're saying? We give our messages context.
I misread this as "goats" and was very confused...I just thought, "no, that's a cat. Isn't it?" And had to scroll back up.
Load More Replies...
The funniest part is captioning the moment she has the corn dog in her mouth
Yes! Dammit people keep beating me to the comments!
Load More Replies...
Just asking , would that be comfortable for the cat. (I know some will say it's comfortable for a baby but still asking).
Honey, I told you people would stare if you ate your corn dog that way....
Yep! No further context needed; I know everything that I need to know about this pic :)
Load More Replies...
My cat was fine with it after I cut off her tail...
Load More Replies...
And now I know this harness exists and I'm thinking about it. My cat is even an orange tabby similar to the one pictured. I tried a leash / harness once and she just laid down and let me drag her across the lawn. She didn't seem mad - she just refused to walk with the leash.
That is a sign they don't enjoy it. Let them ease into a leash before you use it, don't drag your animal around. Also this harness is abusive for the cat, it'll destroy his spine over time
Load More Replies...
The most disturbing thing about this photo is.... the way she's eating that icecream!
how would you eat it? the most disturbing thing about this photo is that they didnt ask these persons first. Would have been a nice picture then probably
Load More Replies...
imagine if the cat was the other way, they'd be walking to the minor emergency room
It's evident that the cat has total mind control over these two. Note their zombie looks and posture.
I think, to a certain extent, ALL crazy cat people infantilize (?) their kitties. The moggy doesn't seem to be too upset!
These are all supposed to be "more context needed." This doesn't belong here
I'm 100% sure that cat would prefer one of those clear backpack carriers to that
Just glad to see they are taking their cat! I am not the only crazy animal lady.
"I want to believe you, Doris, but somehow I can't shake the feeling that I'm not Kevin's real father."
I mean, that's what the therapist said to do...they said it would help their relationship...
The man looks like Christopher Walken in the movie "Joe Dirt" when he does the "you lookin at me" type line.... https://youtu.be/i2lA7KeO1dg
I can't help thinking that if I tried this with my cat, I'd need plastic surgery for all the clawing that would ensue.
According to the Oxford Dictionary, context is defined as “the circumstances that form the setting for an event, statement, or idea, and in terms of which it can be fully understood.” We'll give you an example: "I'm sorry" and "My bad" mean the same thing... unless you're at a funeral.
Human languages are naturally full of vagueness and uncertainty. Even professionals like lawyers and engineers can't use language in a way that's so clear that it can't be understood differently from what was intended. Think about the phrase "I can't do that." Whenever you stress a different word in that sentence, the meaning shifts. "I can’t do that" means something different from "I can’t do that." The sentence means different things when said by someone about to parachute from a plane compared to someone asked to lift a car.
There are some ways to create context for effective communication. Put yourself in the other person’s shoes—not literally, of course (see what we did there?). Imagine the other person hearing your words for the first time. If you were in their position, what information would be necessary to understand the message? Is there any crucial background you should share? Would explaining how you reached a certain conclusion provide perspective?
People may not remember your exact words, but they'll remember how you said them. It's important to match your body language and voice with your message, especially in virtual conversations where only your voice is heard. Make sure your tone fits what you're saying.
It's Baby Shark, mummy shark, daddy shark, grandma shark and grandpa shark!
I'd probably be more annoyed at the white car's parking. At least the canoe is in 1 spot
Be prepared to respond to questions without making assumptions. Avoid becoming defensive and keep in mind that people have different ways of thinking and interpreting. After all, that's why context is necessary in the first place, isn't it?
The best way to communicate is by sharing information. Use open-ended questions and allow space for the message to be clarified. Then, confirm or make corrections to ensure your intended message gets across effectively.
Caption says "they live in very difficult conditions". Not inaccurate...
Continue scrolling for a glimpse into the most hilarious posts in the group. Give a thumbs up to the gems that tickle your funny bone. For an additional dose of context-free wonders, venture into our past editions here and here.
Note: this post originally had 49 images. It’s been shortened to the top 30 images based on user votes.
Why does boredpanda occasionally show me my vote total on the right side column? Like I care. Like anyone should care.
Nicely done! And useful advice - hopefully it gets read as folks scroll through.
Why does boredpanda occasionally show me my vote total on the right side column? Like I care. Like anyone should care.
Nicely done! And useful advice - hopefully it gets read as folks scroll through.
