Time dilation refers to the phenomenon where the perception of time differs between observers who are in relative motion or experiencing different gravitational fields. However, it is important to note that time dilation does not mean that time itself actually slows down or speeds up. Instead, it implies that the flow of time is perceived differently by different observers.
From a subjective perspective, if an observer is in a situation where time dilation occurs, they would experience time passing at a normal rate. Time dilation becomes apparent when comparing the observations of two different observers who are in relative motion or experiencing different gravitational fields.
For example, in the case of special relativity, if two observers are moving relative to each other at high speeds, they will perceive time passing at different rates. However, each observer would consider their own experience of time as normal. Similarly, near a black hole, an observer far away from it would perceive time passing faster compared to an observer close to the black hole.
So, while time dilation leads to the perception of time passing more slowly or quickly depending on the circumstances, it does not imply that time itself changes its fundamental nature. It highlights the relativity of time and how it can be influenced by factors such as motion and gravity.