chapter 2 what is language语言学.ppt

Contents I. Definition of Language; II. Defining Features of Language; III. Language: Unique to Humans; IV. Functions of Language; V. Origin of Language; VI. Two Issues for Discussion. I. Definition of Language 1.1 Understanding of Language: 1.2 Definition of Language: ~~~ is a well-organized system of arbitrary vocal symbols used for human communication. What does language mean? A.It means what person says or said. B.It refers to the whole of a person’s language. C.It means a particular variety or level of speech or writing. D.It refers to the abstract system. E.It refers to the common features of all human languages. Definitions given by different linguists 1. Language is a system whose parts can and must be considered in their synchronic solidarity. (de Saussure, 1916) 2.[Language is] a set (finite or infinite) of sentences, each finite in length and constructed out of a finite set of elements. (Chomsky, 1957) 3. Language is a purely human and non-instinctive method of communicating ideas, emotions and desires by means of voluntarily produced symbols.（Lyons） Each of the definitions above has pointed out some aspects of the essence of language, but all of them have left out something. We must see the multi-faceted nature of language. Language can mean what a person says (e.g. bad language, expressions) the way of speaking or writing (e.g. Shakespeare’s language, Luxun’s language) a particular variety or level of speech or writing (e.g. language for special purpose, colloquial language) the abstract system underlying the totality of the speech/writing behavior of a community (e.g. Chinese language, first language) the common features of all human languages (e.g. He studies language) a tool for human communication. (social function) a set of rules. (rule-governed) 1.2 What Is Language Sapir, American linguist, wrote in 1921 Chomsky, American linguist, gave in 1957 A tentative definition like the followin