Language Flashcards
Is there a universal definition for Language?
No
Defining language is like defining the term life. The exact characteristics have to be talked about. Currently ___ definitions (single/several) for language exist
Several
(Symbol System) Every language that exists in ___ form chooses some symbols for its sounds Eg /k/ in English and ka in Hindi for similar sounds
Written
( Symbol System) these symbols form an ____. According to a system, they join and form meaningful words.
Alphabet
( Symbol system) A symbol is a concrete event or object that stands for something___Eg Cross ✝️for Christians
Abstract
( Symbol System) Words are symbols for objects. give Eg
Table is a symbol for a wooden object on 4 legs
( Symbol System) When someone wants to communicate, they put their message across in symbol form. The receiver shares a ___ with the sender and is able to interpret and understand the symbols.
Common understanding
( Arbitrary) Is there one to one correspondence between a word structure and the object it stands for?
No
( Arbitrary) There is a ___ established that can’t be easily changed. eg PEN is not spelled as NEP
Convention
( Arbitrary) However language is still infinitely ___ and ____ to community needs eg Shakespeare modified stomach to mean courage & new words like Sputnik
Extendable, modifiable
( Arbitrary) This nature of language allows ___ but it’s conventionality gives it ___
Change, stability
( Animal communication) Language is possessed only by ___ as opposed to less developed animals.
Humans
( Animal communication) Language is species ___ and ___
Specific, uniform
( Animal communication) eg A bee can convey distance and source of nectar but not it’s quality
This shows which differing quality?
Infinite- Human language can convey infinite set of messages while animal language is limited
( Animal communication) Eg distinguishing symbols of /k/ /t/ etc but not distinct symbols in long hums of bees
What differing quality does this show?
Discrete -Human langauge uses clearly distinguishable symbols while animal symbols are continuous