CDIS 3377 Language Science - Introduction to Language Vocabulary

Vocabulary flashcards covering core concepts of linguistic study, components of language knowledge, grammar types, and language modalities from CDIS 3377.

Linguistic Competence

Hidden knowledge of language.

Linguistic Performance

Observable use of language.

Phonetics

Knowledge of speech sounds, including speech vs. non-speech, one's language vs. another, and how to produce each sound.

Phonology

Knowledge of how speech sounds work together as a system, including possible vs. impossible sound combinations and identifying word boundaries in spoken speech.

Morphology

Knowledge of how to create new words and break down words into smaller parts that have a particular meaning or function.

Morpheme

The smallest unit of speech with meaning.

Syntax

How words combine to form phrases and sentences, distinguishing grammatical vs. ungrammatical combinations.

Semantics

The ability to determine meaning in words and sentences.

Pragmatics

The ability to use context to interpret an utterance's intended meaning and judge appropriate vs. inappropriate language use.

Lexicon

The mental dictionary of known words.

Mental Grammar

Internalized rules for language use that are acquired naturally through exposure.

Descriptive Grammar

An approach to grammar that focuses on what speakers actually do.

Prescriptive Grammar

An approach to grammar that focuses on what speakers "should" do.

Language Modality

The mode of communication that tells us how a language is produced and perceived.

Auditory-vocal Mode

The predominant mode of communication for spoken language.

Visual-gestural Mode

The predominant mode of communication for signed language.