Language Linguistics

What is language?

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What is language?

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Language is a structured system of communication used by humans, based on words (lexicon) and rules of combination (grammar). It is primarily used to convey thoughts, ideas, information, and emotions. Language can be expressed through speech, writing, or non-verbal communication such as gestures and sign language.

Here are some key aspects of language:

  • Communication: Language enables individuals to share information and interact with one another.
  • Structure: Languages have a systematic structure including phonology (sounds), morphology (word formation), syntax (sentence structure), and semantics (meaning).
  • Arbitrariness: The relationship between a word and what it represents is generally arbitrary; there's no inherent reason why a "tree" is called a "tree."
  • Generativity: Language allows for the creation of an infinite number of sentences from a finite set of rules and words.
  • Cultural Transmission: Language is passed down from one generation to the next and can evolve over time, reflecting cultural changes.

For more in-depth information, you might find the following resources helpful:

Wrote answer · 3/14/2025
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