Studied by 21 peopleLanguage
words or symbols that are created to express meaning
Problems with Language
Labeling, abstract or unclear language, multiple meanings, polarization, under or overuse of Politically Correct language, profanity
Characteristics
arbitrary, ambiguous, abstract, negative
Arbitrary
Words have generally agreed upon meaning (denotative). They allow us to communicate with others.
Three parts of language
signifier, signified, sign
Ferdinand de Saussure
a Swiss linguist
Saussure's theory
Meaning is created inside the language
Ambiguous
Words do not have absolute meaning
Connotations
the feelings associated with that word, meanings we give to things through experiences
Abstract
Language is intangible
Evasion
avoiding giving details
Euphemism
using inoffensive words to replace offensive words
Slang
using informal, nonstandard words
Jargon
using technical language
Negative
Language creates a void or separation
Metaphor
helps us understand through comparison
Simile
compare through using "like" or "as"
Synecdoche
uses part to stand for the whole
Metonyms
use tangible objects to refer to intangible things
Archetype
uses common experiences to help describe another object
Mixed metaphors
compare to inconsistent things
Sapir Whorf Hypothesis
the belief that the labels we use help shape the way we think, our worldview and behavior
Linguistic Determinism
one's language determines the way one's mind constructs knowledge or thought.
This influence of language on culture is called
Linguistic Relativism
Profanity
vulgar and irrelevant language
Repetition
the practice of repeating words and phrases either immediately following the initial statement or in the same location in a message
Alliteration
the practice of using the same vowel or consonant sound at the beginning of consecutive words
Parallelism
the practice of placing related words or phrases in a pattern that highlights what they have in common
Antithesis
the practice of placing two contrasting ideas side by side in a parallel structure
Narrative
a story that's told when trying to explain or argue something with an audience
Note
Flashcard