A System of Communication: Language is primarily a tool for communicating ideas, thoughts, and feelings. It allows us to share information and build relationships.
Symbolic: Language uses symbols (words, sounds, gestures) that represent concepts and ideas. These symbols are arbitrary; their meaning is not inherent but agreed upon by a community.
Structured: Language has rules (grammar, syntax) that govern how symbols are combined and used. This structure ensures that communication is understandable and meaningful.
Learned: Language is not innate. It is acquired through exposure and interaction with others.
Dynamic: Language is constantly evolving. New words are created, meanings shift, and grammar changes over time.
Multimodal: Language can be expressed through various modalities, including spoken, written, signed, and even visual forms.
Cognitive Tool: Language is not just about communication but also shapes our thoughts, memories, and how we understand the world.
Here are some common definitions of language:
* "A system of conventional spoken or written symbols by means of which human beings, as members of a social group and participants in its culture, express themselves. Through its grammar and vocabulary, it has the power to communicate both ideas and emotions." (Oxford English Dictionary)
* "A system of communication used by humans that involves the use of words, signs, or symbols that are combined according to grammatical rules." (Merriam-Webster Dictionary)
* "The method of human communication, either spoken or written, consisting of the use of words in a structured and conventional way." (Cambridge Dictionary)
Ultimately, the definition of language depends on the context and the specific aspect you are interested in.