language
 

 

Language

The systematic co-ordination of grammar† and vocabulary used to convey meaning between members of a population.

 

Clear use of language suggests simple and brief discussion, justification, and explanation, but not so brief and simple that accuracy and (practical) completeness are sacrificed in the process. Appropriate examples should help illustrate and promote understanding of the content. Definitions should be carefully drawn and sufficiently precise – as should be our selection of words and the construction of sentences and passages.

 

Clarity in the use of language may well tend to reflect a clarity of thinking, since language is the medium by which we express our thinking.

 

Amongst the functions of language:

n

Descriptive:

Intended to convey information such as the statement of facts;

n

Evocative:

Intended to draw an emotional response;

n

Evaluative:

Used to assign a value or assess worth, etc.;

n

Expressive:

Communicating emotions;

n

Persuasive:

Attempting to influence, convince, or induce someone to believe or do something;

n

Interrogative:

Used in the search for information, e.g., through the asking of questions;

 

 

and

n

Recreational:

Used for the simply pleasure derived from such utilization.

 

 

†  Grammar

The structure of language; a system of rules through which sentences are formed and word units, for example, nouns and verbs, are selected and ordered – what is deemed to be good grammatical use in a particular sentence would necessitate, for example, that a noun phrase should precede a verb phrase.

 

(see also: reasoning»rhetoric, critical thinking, clarity of thinking, vagueness, ambiguity, learning, definition, figure of speech, imply, innuendo, dilemma, irony, analogy, sarcasm, metaphor, allegory, simile, hyperbole, rhetorical question)
 
 
Labels: language, languages, grammar and vocabulary, grammar, vocabulary, clear use of language
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