1.3 Language as a system

Language is a complex system of signs and symbols that enables human communication. It encompasses verbal and non-verbal elements, governed by rules and conventions that structure how we express ourselves and convey meaning.

Linguistic structure plays a crucial role in shaping how we communicate. From the smallest sound units to entire discourses, language's hierarchical organization and combinatorial properties allow us to express complex ideas and engage in abstract thought.

Language as a Complex System

Complex system of signs and symbols

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• Signs and symbols in language encompass verbal signs used in spoken communication, written symbols representing language visually, and non-verbal signs conveying meaning through body language (gestures, facial expressions)
• Rules and conventions govern language use including grammar structuring sentences and forming words, phonology organizing sound systems, semantics determining meaning, and pragmatics guiding contextual usage
• Systematic nature of language features hierarchical organization with interrelated components following rule-based structures enabling complex communication

Role of linguistic structure

• Levels of linguistic structure range from phonemes as smallest sound units to morphemes as smallest meaning units, building up through words, phrases, sentences, and discourse
• Linguistic structure shapes meaning through combinatorial properties, establishing structural relationships between elements, and applying syntactic rules for sentence formation
• Impact on communication enables clear expression of ideas, facilitates mutual understanding between speakers, and allows for complex and abstract thought processes

Properties and Characteristics of Language

Key properties of human language

• Productivity allows creation and understanding of novel utterances, generating infinite possibilities from finite elements (new sentences)
• Displacement enables reference to past, future, or hypothetical events and communication about abstract concepts (discussing plans)
• Arbitrariness means no inherent connection between word forms and meanings, with exceptions like onomatopoeia (buzz, meow)
• Other properties include duality of patterning combining meaningless elements into meaningful units, cultural transmission through learning, and reflexiveness using language to discuss language itself

Form and meaning in language

• Form-meaning relationship based on Saussurean concept of linguistic sign linking signifier (form) to signified (meaning)
• Contributions to creativity manifest in metaphors, word play (puns), and formation of neologisms (selfie, hangry)
• Expressive power enhanced through connotation and denotation, register and style variation, and use of prosody and intonation
• Flexibility of language demonstrated by polysemy with multiple meanings for one form (bank - financial institution, river edge), synonymy offering multiple forms for similar meanings (big, large, enormous), and context-dependent interpretation