Linguistics Flashcards

Flashcards covering key concepts in linguistics.

Linguistics

The scientific study of language, including its structure, evolution, and use.

Four Main Types of Language

Spoken, written, signed, and haptic (e.g., Braille).

Phonetics vs. Phonology

Phonetics is the study of speech sounds; phonology is the study of sound patterns.

Branches of Linguistics

Phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics.

Pragmatics

The meaning of language in context.

Form, Meaning, and Function

Form = structure, meaning = semantic content, function = communicative purpose.

Icon, Index, and Symbol in Semiotics

Icon = resembles meaning, Index = shows evidence, Symbol = arbitrary connection.

Noun Phrase (NP)

A phrase with a noun as the headword.

Syntax

The arrangement of words in sentences.

Morpheme

The smallest unit of meaning in a language.

Derivational vs. Inflectional Affixes

Derivational affixes create new words; inflectional affixes modify grammar.

Denotation and Connotation

Denotation = literal meaning, Connotation = implied or associated meaning.

Grice's Four Conversational Maxims

Quantity, Quality, Relevance, and Manner.

Speech Act

An utterance that performs an action, such as requesting or promising.

Speech Chain Model

How thoughts are converted into speech and understood by a listener.

Broca's and Wernicke's Areas

Broca's: language production; Wernicke's: language comprehension.

Simultaneous Bilingualism

Learning two languages from birth.

Code-Switching

Alternating between languages or dialects based on context.

Speech Community

A group of people who share linguistic norms and practices.