* Understanding: Comprehending spoken and written language.
* Producing: Speaking and writing.
* Thinking: Using language to form thoughts and communicate ideas.
Specifically, the ability to speak is called "speech". This involves the physical act of producing sounds using the vocal cords, tongue, teeth, and lips.
While language and speech are closely linked, they are distinct abilities. Someone can understand language without being able to speak (like someone with a physical disability affecting their speech). Conversely, someone can speak without fully understanding the meaning of what they're saying (like a child learning to talk or someone repeating phrases without comprehension).
Language is a powerful tool that allows us to:
* Communicate with others: Share information, express emotions, and build relationships.
* Think and reason: Formulate complex thoughts, solve problems, and learn.
* Create culture: Pass down knowledge, traditions, and values through generations.
It's an essential part of what makes us human.