However, we can discuss some fundamental characteristics of human languages that have been observed across all known languages:
1. Phonology: All languages have a system of sounds (phonemes) that are used to create words. While the specific sounds and their combinations vary greatly, the principle of using sound to represent meaning is universal.
2. Morphology: Languages have a system for combining sounds into meaningful units (morphemes). These morphemes can be words, affixes, or other elements that carry meaning. This allows languages to express complex ideas by combining basic units of meaning.
3. Syntax: All languages have rules for ordering words into phrases and sentences, although the specific rules differ. This allows for the expression of grammatical relationships between words and the communication of complex thoughts.
4. Semantics: Languages are systems of meaning. While the specific words used to express meaning may vary, the underlying concepts and the ways in which words can be related to each other are generally shared across languages.
These characteristics are considered universal features of human language and are not directly tied to the Biblical story of Babel. Instead, they are based on scientific observations of language across cultures and throughout history.