1. Language as a System of Communication:
* Focuses on the core function: Language is a system of signs and symbols used for communication.
* Emphasizes structure: This definition highlights the organized nature of language, with rules governing its elements (sounds, words, sentences) and their combinations.
* Examples:
* "Language is a system of arbitrary vocal symbols used for human communication." (Sapir, 1921)
* "Language is a purely human and non-instinctive method of communicating ideas, emotions, and desires by means of voluntarily produced symbols." (De Saussure, 1916)
2. Language as a Cognitive Faculty:
* Focuses on the mental processes involved: Language is a mental capacity that allows humans to acquire, process, and generate language.
* Emphasizes the role of the brain: This definition recognizes the neurological basis of language and how it develops within the human mind.
* Examples:
* "Language is a biologically based cognitive capacity that allows humans to acquire, process, and generate language." (Chomsky, 1957)
* "Language is a system of rules and principles that are innate to the human mind." (Pinker, 1994)
3. Language as a Social Phenomenon:
* Focuses on the role of language in society: Language is a social construct that is used to create and maintain communities.
* Emphasizes the interaction between language and culture: This definition recognizes how language shapes and is shaped by social norms, values, and beliefs.
* Examples:
* "Language is a social phenomenon that is used to create and maintain communities." (Hymes, 1972)
* "Language is a system of signs and symbols that is used to express cultural meanings." (Geertz, 1973)
4. Language as a Form of Symbolic Representation:
* Focuses on the ability to represent thoughts and ideas: Language is a system of symbols that allow humans to represent their thoughts and ideas.
* Emphasizes the arbitrary nature of language: This definition acknowledges that the connection between words and their meanings is not inherently natural but rather agreed upon by users.
* Examples:
* "Language is a system of symbols that allows humans to represent their thoughts and ideas." (Peirce, 1903)
* "Language is a tool for making sense of the world." (Wittgenstein, 1953)
Beyond these main perspectives, some linguists consider additional aspects of language, such as:
* Language as a tool for thought: How language influences our thinking and perception of the world.
* Language as an evolutionary adaptation: How language evolved in humans and its biological underpinnings.
* Language as a dynamic system: How language changes over time and across different communities.
Ultimately, the best definition of language depends on the specific context and purpose. It's crucial to acknowledge that all these perspectives offer valuable insights into the complex nature of language and its multifaceted roles in human life.