Characteristics of Language | 10 Useful Characteristics of Human Language

Last updated on August 18th, 2024 at 02:07 pm

Language is an essential aspect of our life and it’s also important to learn and understand the characteristics of language. Language is the most powerful and dominant system of communication. In other words, it is the most effective way to communicate.

In addition, language is the system of conventional, spoken, and written symbols by which we communicate with each other, from one country to another country or one culture to another culture. It is the best way to express emotions, thoughts, feelings, and desires.

With time, language is also being changed in its form. Human language is dynamic and adaptable, so it differs from animal communication in several ways. However, every language has some common characteristics and objectives.

Characteristics of Language

Let us know the characteristics of language in brief: language is arbitrary, productive, creative, symbolic, systematic, vocalic, social, non-instinctive, and conventional; language is a communication system, and language is structurally complex and adaptable.

10 Major Characteristics of Human Language

Let’s walk you through the ten major characteristics of a language. Please read carefully for proper understanding.

1. Language is Arbitrary

The key and fundamental feature of language is its arbitrariness. This means that there is no inherent connection between the words we use and the meanings they represent which proves that language is arbitrary. For example, there is nothing about the sound of the word “tree” that inherently suggests a tall leafy plant.

Although such items and concepts are expressed, there is no reason different societies should pronounce the “same phrase” differently. Different languages use different sounds to indicate the same object.

It is arbitrary for a term to be used to describe a certain thing or concept. It’s a matter of fact that if language had not been arbitrary, there would have been only one language existing today. We can think of language as an arbitrary vocal symbol because of this.

2. Language is a Social Phenomenon

In a sense, language is a social phenomenon. Language is social in our society; it nourishes and develops culture and establishes human relations.

As a member of a particular social group, we human beings interact with each other, allowing us to identify connect, and coordinate with one another. This is how language is part and parcel of our society.

Sociolinguists study how language varies within different social contexts and how it can be used to assert identity or convey social status. For example, the use of slang and dialects can signal membership in a particular community while formal languages might be used to convey authority and professionalism.

Language exists in the public arena, is a method for feeding and creating a society, and sets up human relations. As a member of the community, we acquire a language permanently.

3. Language is a Symbolic System

Language signifies a symbolic system consisting of different sound symbols for concepts, things, ideas, objects, etc. It has sounds and words as its symbols.

These symbols are picked and routinely acknowledged and utilized. The words in a language are not just patterns or images but symbols that denote meaning.

The language uses words as symbols, not signs, for the concept they represent. The core value of a language sometimes relies on properly explaining these symbols.

 4. Language is Systematic

Although the language is symbolic, its symbols are arranged in specific systems. All languages have their arrangement of plans, and each language is an arrangement of systems.

Furthermore, all languages have phonological and syntactic systems; within a system, there are several sub-systems.
For instance, the morphological and syntactic systems are inside the linguistic system. Inside these two sub-systems, we have systems such as plural, mindset, perspective, tense, etc.

5. Language is Vocal, Verbal, and Sound

Language is a system of vocal and verbal symbolism, and it is essentially formed of vocal sounds just created by a physiological articulatory component in the human body.

First and foremost, it shows up as vocal sounds only. Language takes verbal elements such as sounds, words, and phrases fixed up in specific ways to make several sentences.

Language is vocal and sound, and we can speak a language by using different speech organs. Writing can be considered as an intelligent platform to represent vocal sounds, and it is the graphic representation of the speech sounds of the language.

6. Language is Non-Instinctive, Conventional

No language was produced over a few days using a formula that was accepted by all. Every generation passes on this convention to the one after them as a result of evolution and convention, which gave rise to language.

Languages can evolve, spread, and change just like any other human organization. Every language is spoken in a specific community somewhere in the world. But since language is something we naturally learn, we may say that it is not instinctual.

7. Language is Productive and Creative

Creativity and productivity are integral parts of language. Language is a highly productive system which means it allows us to produce an infinite number of sentences from a finite set of elements. This productivity enables us to express new ideas, describe imaginary words, or convey complex emotions.

In all reality, understanding between the involved individuals is easy. Language can vary by what is required by human society. Language, after all, has the ability to drive productivity and innovation.

8. Language is a System of Communication

Language is strong, convenient, and the best form of communication no doubt, and it is the best way to express everything. We human beings express our thoughts, desires, emotions, and feelings through language.

Further, we can interact easily through the welfare of language. After all, we may say that language is the best communication system around the world.

9. Language is Human and Structurally Complex

One of the major characteristics of language is that it’s human and structurally complex. Unlike animal language, human language is open-minded, extendable, and adaptable. Language should be modifiable from time to time.

No species other than human beings have been endowed with language. So, language is naturally human, structurally complex, and modifiable in some cases.

10. Language is Unique, Complex, and Modifiable

Language is indeed a unique phenomenon in the world. Every language has its characteristics and distinctive features. Furthermore, each language has its creativity and productivity to deliver the best communication methods.

This is how language has the potential to be unique, complex, and adjustable to the change in time and culture.

Final Thoughts

Language is a multifaceted and dynamic system that is an integral part of human life. It enables us to communicate, express our thoughts and feelings, and transmit culture. Understanding the characteristics of language gives us insights into not only how we communicate but also how we connect with each other and navigate the world around us.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main purpose of language?

The main purpose of language is to facilitate communication, allowing individuals to ideas, emotions, thoughts, and feelings.

How does language differ from other forms of communication?

Language differs from other forms of communication in its complexity, productivity, and ability to convey abstract concepts and ideas through structured symbols and rules.

Why is it important to study the characteristics of language?

Studying the characteristics of language helps us understand the complexities of human communication, the relationship between language and thought, and the ways in which language shapes our social interactions and cultural identity.

Have a look at these useful links:

1. Best grammar checker online for free
2. Definition of Language
3. Stages of Language Development
4. What is Psycholinguistics?
5. Word Formation Processes

Azizul Hakim

Azizul Hakim is the founder & CEO of englishfinders.com. He is a passionate writer, English instructor, and content creator. He has completed his graduation and post-graduation in English language and literature.