Notes on Language, Expression, and Structure

Notes on Language, Expression, and Structure

Notes on Language and Its Expression

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  • Definition of Language
    "Language is the expression of ideas by means of speech-sounds combined into words."

    • Thoughts: This highlights that language is fundamentally a tool for conveying thoughts and ideas, emphasizing its role as a communicative medium.
    • Additional Information: Language can be expressed verbally (spoken) or non-verbally (written, gestures).
  • Combining Words into Sentences
    "Words are combined into sentences, this combination answering to that of ideas into thoughts."

    • Thoughts: This point underscores the complexity of language—the structure of sentences reflects the organization of ideas.
    • Additional Information: The way words are structured influences meaning; syntax and grammar are crucial for effective communication.
  • Attribution
    The quote is attributed to Henry Sweet.

    • Thoughts: Sweet was a prominent linguist, known for his work on phonetics and language education.
    • Additional Information: Understanding the contributions of linguists like Sweet can deepen the comprehension of language development and its theories.

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