ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Embedded metalanguage

Embedded metalanguage is like having a secret code inside of a language. It's like playing a special game where you have to use certain words or phrases to unlock a hidden message or meaning.

For example, when we speak in English, we can use words like "happy" or "sad" to express emotions. But with embedded metalanguage, we might use special words or phrases that only certain people understand.

Imagine you have a super cool club with your friends and you want to talk to each other without anyone else understanding. You might use a special code word to mean something else, like saying "blue" instead of "enemy." That way, you and your friends can communicate without anyone else knowing what you're saying. This is kind of like embedded metalanguage.

In the world of computers, embedded metalanguage is used to give commands or instructions to a program. When you're using software or a website, you might enter text or make selections that trigger certain actions to happen. These actions are controlled by a special language that is hidden from you. It's like a secret code that tells the computer what to do.

Overall, embedded metalanguage is a way of adding special meaning or commands to a language or program that only certain people or systems can understand. It's like having a secret code that can unlock hidden messages or actions.