* Language (with a capital "L"): This refers to the general concept of human language. It encompasses the ability to communicate through symbols, the rules governing those symbols (grammar), and the shared meaning behind them (semantics). It's a broad term that covers all forms of human communication, from spoken languages like English or Mandarin to sign languages and even things like body language.
* A language (with a lowercase "l"): This refers to a specific system of communication used by a particular group of people. Examples include English, Spanish, French, Arabic, Japanese, etc. Each language has its own unique sounds, vocabulary, grammar, and cultural context.
Think of it this way:
* Language is like the idea of a car. It's the general concept of a vehicle for transportation.
* A language is like a specific car model, like a Honda Accord or a Toyota Corolla. It has its own unique features and characteristics.
So, when we say "language", we are talking about the universal capacity for communication. When we say "a language", we are talking about a particular system of communication used by a specific group.