LANGUAGE

Definition & Nature

What is Language?
 is a system of arbitrary vocal symbols through
which members of a group communicate.
(according to Linguists)
 This definition contains several concepts that help us
understand what language is and how it works
Nature of Language
 Language is systematic.
 Language is arbitrary.
 Language is vocal.
 Language is symbolic.
Language is Systematic
 Language is consistent and predictable.
 It follows patterns or rules that allow an infinite
number of communication.
 We develop an intuitive knowledge of the language
system which allows us to generate and receive
messages that totally new to us.

Nature of Language
Language is Arbitrary.
 The elements of a language system are
arbitrarily determined.
 Individuals cannot utter any string of sounds in any
order and expect others to understand them.
 Communication is dependent on an established system
and decisions about the elements within that system
are necessarily arbitrary.
Nature of Language
Language is Vocal.
 Language is based on a set of speech sounds
produced by the vocal organs of the body.
 Words are made by combining these sounds.
 Speech is the primary language of a group
 Writing is a symbolic representation of speech
and was developed thousands of years later.

Nature of Language
Language is symbolic.
 Words stand for objects and things and they
allow us to talk about them when they are not
present.
 A word is not the thing; it is a symbol for the thing
 The symbolic nature of our language allows us to think
and talk about abstract ideas such as democracy and
love, as well as about concrete objects and things.
Nature of Language
The Purpose of Language is Group
Communication.
 The needs for communication among members of a
group gives rise to language.
 The language that develops belong to the group and
binds them together. They in turn are responsible
for knowing the language; it is a prerequisite for
functional membership in the group.

Nature of Language