What is Language?

What is Language?
Tayla Millard

What is language? It sounds like a silly question really, but for something so natural there is so much we don’t know. What we do know, is that language is used everywhere. We may not speak the same language, but language is a form of human communication, a necessity for survival. Talking is not the only form of language. For those who can’t speak verbally, sign language is another means of communication, as well as writing! The 3 Modes of Language as well as the uses for language will be further explored in this essay.

When thinking of Language, talking verbally is often the first thing to spring to mind. This is probably because it’s our primary source of communication. On average, we speak around 15,000 words a day, if not more for females! But why do we need to say so many words? To socialise, instruct, learn, entertain, express feelings, ask questions, to celebrate, overall: to communicate. As against writing or signing, speaking verbally is the most efficient. It’s faster, more direct, less chance for misinterpretation and is best accompanied by the use of body language and facial expressions. The characteristics of Language are so diverse. Changing the tone or raising your voice during a conversation can alter the message conveyed. As well as the context it is used in. For example, if I said, “The bank is nearby” I could be talking about the Financial Institution or the river bank. Endless possibilities!

Sign Language, often used by the deaf is another form of language. It is used for the same purpose- to convey a message or piece of information. The only differences, apart from the absence of verbal noises is that sign language can be misinterpreted from the inability to hear the tone of voice, in the cases of a deaf person.

Lastly, writing is another mode of language. Why do we write things if we can speak them, what are the differences? Writing allows the message to be delivered in a higher formality.  Writing can be used educationally, instructively or used to express sympathy or emotions without getting muddled up by saying it in person. Writing is also permanent, can be impersonal and is clear and precise.

Despite the mode, language is necessary for human interaction and evolution. Without it, we could not have come so far in terms of technology, science, health and every aspect of life. “Language is a means of getting an idea from my brain into yours without surgery.” Mark Amidon. We can share what’s in our thoughts and make it someone else’s and this, I believe, is the purpose of language.