1.1 Defining language and its properties

Language fundamentals are the building blocks of human communication. From complex grammar to abstract concepts, these unique characteristics set human language apart from animal communication systems and non-verbal cues.

Key properties like arbitrariness and productivity make language infinitely expressive. These features allow us to create new utterances, discuss abstract ideas, and pass language down through generations, shaping our thoughts and worldviews.

Language Fundamentals

Unique characteristics of language

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• Language definition encompasses structured communication system used by humans employing words, gestures, or symbols with agreed-upon meanings
• Complex grammar and syntax allow intricate expression of ideas and relationships between concepts
• Ability to convey abstract concepts enables discussion of intangible or theoretical subjects (love, justice)
• Infinite expressiveness with finite elements permits creation of unlimited novel sentences from limited set of words and rules
• Differs from animal communication systems which typically lack grammatical structure and abstract representation
• Contrasts with non-verbal human communication relying on facial expressions, body language, and paralinguistic features

Key properties of human language

• Arbitrariness refers to lack of inherent connection between words and meanings with exceptions (buzz, hiss)
• Productivity allows creation and understanding of novel utterances through combinatorial nature of language elements
• Displacement enables reference to things not present in time or space facilitating discussion of past, future, and hypothetical scenarios
• Duality of patterning organizes meaningless sounds into meaningful units (phonemes into morphemes)
• Cultural transmission passes language from one generation to next through social learning
• Reflexiveness permits using language to talk about language itself

Language and Cognition

Language and thought relationship

• Sapir-Whorf hypothesis proposes linguistic relativity where language influences thought patterns and worldview
• Language functions as tool for thought facilitating complex reasoning and aiding memory and categorization
• Thought influences language through conceptual development leading to linguistic innovation
• Cultural experiences shape vocabulary and expressions reflecting societal values and norms
• Bilingualism affects cognitive flexibility potentially enhancing problem-solving skills and mental agility
• Language acquisition interacts with cognitive development influencing conceptual understanding and reasoning abilities

Prescriptive vs descriptive language study

• Prescriptive approach focuses on "correct" language use establishing rules and standards often associated with formal education and style guides
• Descriptive approach observes and analyzes how language is actually used aiming to understand without judgment forming basis for modern linguistic research
• Prescriptivism influences language change by resisting innovations and maintaining traditional forms
• Descriptivism acknowledges and documents linguistic diversity capturing language variations across communities
• Language education balances prescriptive guidance with descriptive awareness to develop effective communication skills
• Language policies often reflect tension between prescriptive ideals and descriptive realities in official language use