9. Language in Context

Language and Thought

The study of the interrelation between language and cognitive processes.

Differences among Languages

Major variations exist in lexicon and syntax among languages.

Grammatical inflections

Determine how actions are communicated in a language.

Sapir-Whorf Hypothesis

Suggests that cognitive perceptions are shaped by language.

Linguistic Relativity

The idea that language influences thought and worldview.

Linguistic Determinism

The belief that language habits of a community guide specific interpretations.

Color Naming

Different languages categorize colors differently, which influences perception.

Bilingualism

The ability to use two languages, which can be categorized into types such as additive or subtractive.

Additive Bilingualism

Learning a second language without losing the first, enhancing cognitive abilities.

Subtractive Bilingualism

Replacing the first language with elements of the second, which may harm cognitive abilities.

Simultaneous Bilingualism

Acquiring two languages from birth as taught by parents.

Sequential Bilingualism

Learning languages one after another rather than simultaneously.

Factors Influencing Second Language Acquisition

Reasons include age, cognitive ability, learning context, and specific goals.

Single-system Hypothesis

Proposes both languages are represented in one cognitive system.

Dual-systems Hypothesis

Suggests each language is represented in separate cognitive regions.

Slips of the Tongue

Unintended errors in speech that reveal differences between thought and spoken language.

Metaphor

A linguistic device that combines two nouns to imply similarities and acknowledge dissimilarities.

Tenor

The main subject of a metaphor.

Vehicle

The subject to which the tenor is compared in a metaphor.

Ground

Similarities shared by the tenor and vehicle in a metaphor.

Tension

Dissimilarities that contrast between the tenor and vehicle in a metaphor.

Pragmatics

The study of language use in social contexts, encompassing sociolinguistics.

Common ground

Shared understanding established through language and nonverbal communication.

Speech Acts

Actions performed via speaking, categorized into direct and indirect speech acts.

Direct Speech Acts

Clearly stated meanings that fall into various categories like representatives and directives.

Indirect Speech Acts

Implied meanings that express abilities, desires, and future intentions.

Gender and Language

Differences in communication styles and preferences between genders.

Wernicke’s Aphasia

A type of aphasia characterized by difficulty understanding words and sentences.

Broca’s Aphasia

A form of aphasia with agrammatical speech but preserved comprehension.

Global Aphasia

A severe form of aphasia affecting both comprehension and speech production.

Anomic Aphasia

Aphasia that impairs word retrieval, often seen in various conditions.