Here's a breakdown:
From a purely biological standpoint:
* Speaking came first. Humans evolved to speak before they developed written language. We can see this in the development of the human vocal tract and the ability to produce complex sounds.
From a historical perspective:
* Speaking came first. While there are some very ancient forms of writing, like cave paintings and symbols, these were likely not used for communication in the same way we use language today. Spoken language has been around for much longer, and it's the foundation for how we communicate verbally.
From a developmental perspective:
* Speaking comes first. Babies learn to speak before they learn to write. They develop language skills through listening and interacting with others. Writing is a more complex skill that relies on a foundation of spoken language.
However, there's a twist:
* Writing can be seen as a tool for preserving and sharing spoken language. Writing allows us to capture thoughts and ideas that would otherwise be lost. It allows us to communicate across time and distance.
So, the answer depends on your perspective:
* Biologically and historically, speaking comes first.
* Developmentally, speaking comes first.
* But writing plays a vital role in preserving and sharing spoken language.
Ultimately, both speaking and writing are essential parts of human communication. They are intertwined and complement each other.