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The Structure of Language definitions

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  • Language
    A uniquely human system of structured symbols and rules enabling expression of complex and abstract ideas, internal thought, and infinite novel utterances.
  • Communication
    A broad process of exchanging information or signals, including vocal, body, or chemical forms, found across the animal kingdom.
  • Symbol
    An element, such as a word, used to represent ideas or objects within a structured system for conveying meaning.
  • Grammar
    A set of rules governing how words are combined to form meaningful sentences in a particular language.
  • Sentence
    A complete unit of language expressing a full thought, structured according to grammatical rules.
  • Phrase
    A group of words that fit together but do not form a complete thought, often missing a subject, verb, or object.
  • Morpheme
    The smallest unit of language carrying meaning, including whole words, prefixes, suffixes, or plural markers.
  • Phoneme
    The smallest distinct sound unit in a language, which can change meaning when altered.
  • Syntax
    A system of rules specifying the order and combination of words within sentences, unique to each language.
  • Abstract Concept
    An idea or notion not tied to physical objects or direct experiences, such as democracy or the future.
  • Internal Monologue
    The use of language for self-reflection, mental categorization, and thought processes within the mind.
  • Plurality
    A grammatical feature indicating more than one, often marked by a suffix like 's' in English.
  • Subject
    The part of a sentence that typically indicates who or what is performing the action.
  • Object
    The part of a sentence that typically receives the action performed by the subject.
  • Adjective
    A word that modifies or describes a noun, often placed before the noun in English syntax.