1. Systematicity and Structure:
* Phonology: Language uses a specific set of sounds (phonemes) and rules for combining them (morphology).
* Grammar: It has rules for combining words into meaningful sentences (syntax) and understanding their function (semantics).
* Lexicon: It possesses a shared vocabulary (words) with agreed-upon meanings.
2. Symbolic:
* Arbitrary: The connection between a word and its meaning is arbitrary and learned through convention.
* Representational: Words and sentences stand for things, concepts, and ideas.
3. Generative:
* Infinite possibilities: A limited number of sounds and grammatical rules can be used to create an infinite number of novel sentences.
* Productivity: Language allows us to express new thoughts and ideas.
4. Communication:
* Intentionality: Language is used to convey messages and ideas.
* Shared understanding: Successful communication relies on shared knowledge and understanding of the language system.
5. Cultural and Socially Embedded:
* Variations: Languages differ across cultures and regions.
* Social context: The meaning of words and sentences can vary depending on the social context.
* Evolution: Languages change and evolve over time.
6. Cognitive Tool:
* Thinking: Language is used for thinking, planning, and problem-solving.
* Memory: It helps us organize and recall information.
7. Multimodal:
* Spoken: The most common form of language involves verbal communication.
* Written: Languages can be represented in written form.
* Visual: Sign language relies on visual cues.
* Other: Other forms of communication, such as gestures and body language, can also be considered part of the linguistic system.
8. Dynamic:
* Change over time: Languages are constantly evolving, with new words being created and old ones being lost.
* Influences: Languages are influenced by contact with other languages and cultural changes.
Understanding these characteristics helps us appreciate the complexity and power of language as a tool for communication, thought, and cultural expression.