Language
Definition
Language is a complex system of communication that involves the use of words, symbols, or signs to express thoughts, ideas, and emotions.
Analogy
Think of language as a toolbox. Just like how you need different tools (hammer, screwdriver, wrench) for different tasks in construction or repair work, you need different words and structures (nouns, verbs, adjectives) to express various thoughts and feelings.
Related terms
Semantics: This refers to the meaning of words and sentences. It's like the instruction manual in your toolbox that tells you what each tool does.
Phonology: This is the study of how sounds function in particular languages. It's like understanding which tool makes what sound when used correctly.
Morphology: This is the study of the structure of words. It's similar to knowing how each tool in your toolbox can be broken down into smaller parts (like removing a drill bit from a drill).
"Language" appears in:
Practice Questions (4)
- How might you design an experiment to study the impact of language on thought?
- Which theory proposes children learn language mainly by following a built-in timetable for development?
- What aspect of language involves the rules for combining words into grammatically sensible sentences?
- Which theory would suggest that a child learns language through reinforcement, such as praise and rewards?
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