FACULTY OF SOCIAL SCIENCE

LANGUAGES SCHOOL

SUBJECT:
LINGUISTICS

TOPIC:
CHAPTER 2
LANGUAGE AND LINGUISTICS

TEACHER’S NAME:
FLOR ELENA MOREIRA DE MINERO

STUDENT’S NAME:
BAIRES RIVAS ESTEFANI LORENA 31-1235-2021

CYCLE:
02-2023

DUE DATE: AUGUST 17TH, 2023

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 INTRODUCTION:
Language, a system that defines human communication, is a fascinating
phenomenon that has transcended since a long time ago with words and sentences.
It is through language that we convey our thoughts, emotions, and ideas, enabling
us to connect, understand, and express ourselves. Linguistics, the scientific study of
language, delves into the mechanics, structures, and evolution of this remarkable
human faculty. In this exploration of language and linguistics, we will uncover the
layers of complexity that underlie every spoken and written word. From the origins
of language to the intricacies of grammar and syntax, we embark on a journey to
unravel the mysteries of how we communicate, both within and beyond the
boundaries of culture and time.

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 LANGUAGE AND LINGUISTICS

What is language? What is linguistic?

Linguistic is the
Theoretical Definition Operational Definition systematic exploration
of human language
The theoretical The operational using scientific
definition provided by definition is the practical methods,
Sapir is as follows: counterpart to the
encompassing the
"Language, according to theoretical explanation. It
analysis of form,
Sapir 'is purely human involves the practical
application and use of meaning, and context.
and non-instinctive
method of language and the "multi-
scale coordination" of It plays a crucial role in
communicating ideas,
systematically expressing understanding how
emotions, and desires by
means of a system distributed feelings and language works, how it
voluntarily produced thoughts within collective, is used, and how it
symbol’” (2014:79). individual, and constitutive evolves, contributing to
human characteristics. It
a broader
This definition highlights also encompasses various
understanding of
that language is a forms of communication
uniquely human and beyond just spoken or human communication
intentional way of written words. For instance, and culture.
conveying thoughts, it includes gestures,
feelings, and intentions symbols, signs, or motions
through symbols that are as means to communicate
created by humans. with others.

Origins of Language

The text acknowledges that the origin of language has been a subject of debate for centuries. Early religious
perspectives, particularly within Muslim, Judaic, and Christian traditions, saw language as divinely given to
humans. For instance, in the Quran, Adam and Eve were described as able to name things in front of the angels,
suggesting that language was a gift from God. However, the text notes that both linguists and theologians have
not provided a detailed account of the history of language's conception in human beings. Instead, the historical
origins of language remain a partially unexplained and unresolved mystery. Despite this, language is recognized
as a central communicative tool in human activities, possibly inherent in human nature.

English's history can be divided

into four periods:

Old English Middle English Early English Late Modern English Period:
Period: Period: Period:
The rise of the British colonial
This era was After the Norman English began to empire played a significant role
influenced by the conquest, native spread globally in the widespread use of
migration of English was replaced and gain English in colonies and
groups such as by Anglo-Normans prominence. commonwealth countries. This
the Angles, and Norman French period also saw the emergence
Saxons, Jutes, and as the official royal of various "new Englishes"
Frisians to Great language in because of multiple interacting
Britain. England. social factors.

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 Distinctive Features
SOCIAL: of Human Language TOOL OF COMMUNICATION:

It refers to the context of human interaction and Language is a vital tool for communication,
communication within a community or group. It involves allowing people to express thoughts and
how individuals connect, cooperate, and relate to one emotions, connect with various cultures, and
another, using language as a key tool for expressing differentiate between past, present, and future
themselves and building relationships. experiences.

PRODUCTIVITY:
CREATIVITY:
Language is a creative process of communication
It involves expressing ideas about both tangible
through speech and writing. It adapts to
and intangible subjects using language, by
community needs, allowing endless generation of
rearranging linguistic elements in innovative ways.
new expressions for novel ideas.

ARBITRARY: SYMBOLIC:

It refers to the lack of inherent connection between It refers to language using symbols to represent
linguistic forms and their meanings in human concepts, things, and ideas. Language's sound
language, making each language's communication symbols denote objects and meanings, holding
unique and not following a direct logical pattern. symbolic power as a representation of human action.

DISPLACEMENT:
SYSTEMATIC:

Displacement is using language to convey

Language is organized according to specific rules and
meanings beyond the present space and time,
systems. Every language has pronunciation and
describing objects not physically present,
writing conventions, and the presence of grammar
allowing words to work without needing
demonstrates its natural structure and systematic
visualization.
nature.

VOCAL OR VERBAL:

It refers to human language's use of complex vocal

sounds produced by a specialized speech organ, a
skill unique to humans due to their physiological
articulation capabilities.

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