Here's why:
* Individual variation: Every speaker has their own unique experiences, background, and personality, which all influence how they use language. Think of word choices, accent, intonation, and even the speed at which you speak.
* Social factors: Social factors like age, gender, socioeconomic status, ethnicity, and regional dialect heavily influence language use. For example, a teenager might use slang that an older person wouldn't.
* Context: The context of a conversation significantly shapes how we speak. Formal situations demand different language than informal ones. Think of the difference between how you speak to your best friend versus a job interviewer.
So, while we share a common language, the ways we use it are unique and constantly evolving. Sociolinguistics helps us understand these differences and the complex interplay of factors that shape our language.