Voltaire once said that language is way too complex to be described in words. But people try, and I have often wondered...all in all, what is language?
2006-08-13 06:15:18 · 11 answers · asked by laurendavi 1 in Social Science ➔ Other - Social Science
A means of communication
2006-08-13 06:18:13 · answer #1 · answered by Paul B 5 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Language is structure, organization, complexity, sophistication, intricacy, music, art, physics, culture, counterculture, and religion. Even more interestingly, plug any of the other words in the last sentence into the spot where "language" goes at the beginning of the sentence, and the sentence still makes sense. A symphony and a physics equation can be equally complex and beautiful/frightening, as is the formation of a religious faith, as is a work of art....the synchronicity and interdependence of all humanity's constructs are so beautiful to me! It's all language, and it all communicates our essence, good bad and ugly.
2006-08-16 19:13:49 · answer #2 · answered by Mark L 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Language is meant for communication, and that's the main purpose of it. Utterances were passed on down to newer generations since the first **** sapien existed on earth for many centuries. signs and written documents are more harder to express and takes long time to say what you really mean, meanwhile signs are easily miunderstood. So the invention of languages makes it possible to communicate complex situations. Good enough, yes?
2006-08-13 07:17:06 · answer #3 · answered by FILO 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
IT IS A WAY FOR PEOPLE TO COMMUNICATE. IT DATES BACK MANY YEARS, AND FOR MANY DIFFERENT REASONS INCLUDING CODES.
1 entry found for LANGUAGES.
lan·guage ( P ) Pronunciation Key (lnggwj)
n.
Communication of thoughts and feelings through a system of arbitrary signals, such as voice sounds, gestures, or written symbols.
Such a system including its rules for combining its components, such as words.
Such a system as used by a nation, people, or other distinct community; often contrasted with dialect.
A system of signs, symbols, gestures, or rules used in communicating: the language of algebra.
Computer Science. A system of symbols and rules used for communication with or between computers.
Body language; kinesics.
The special vocabulary and usages of a scientific, professional, or other group: “his total mastery of screen languagecamera placement, editingand his handling of actors” (Jack Kroll).
A characteristic style of speech or writing: Shakespearean language.
A particular manner of expression: profane language; persuasive language.
The manner or means of communication between living creatures other than humans: the language of dolphins.
Verbal communication as a subject of study.
The wording of a legal document or statute as distinct from the spirit.
2006-08-13 06:24:11 · answer #4 · answered by ? 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Communication. Language is no different than a rhino stamping it's foot, a dog wagging it's tail, a dolphin's clicks and whistles, or a bumblebee's dance.
2006-08-13 06:21:35 · answer #5 · answered by ? 6 · 0⤊ 0⤋
a form of communication
2006-08-16 21:15:10 · answer #6 · answered by x040493t 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
a part of communication
2006-08-13 08:31:21 · answer #7 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
human communication
2006-08-14 16:27:45 · answer #8 · answered by kootie33 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
english
2006-08-13 06:22:57 · answer #9 · answered by C 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Metaphors... in words
2006-08-13 06:23:17 · answer #10 · answered by brent 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋