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Human languages are arbitrary by nature: There is no reason why a furry domestic animal that purrs should be called cat, and not blop or fleechtafly.

The fact that different languages use different words to describe the same thing is, in itself, a proof of arbitrariness.

Grammatical structures are just as arbitrary; for instance, the English language uses mainly a subject-verb-object structure while the German language puts verbs at the end of the sentence, etc.

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11y ago
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15y ago

There are many incorrect definitions of language, and this is one. Some language is not vocal. And "arbitrary" symbols would be unintelligible to anyone except the person making them up. Better to define language as a complex system of symbols used to convey meaning, feeling and intent. Still not a complete definition, but at least it is not wrong.

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9y ago

Language is arbitrary because in every language the sounds do not relate to the words' meanings. Even the sounds of the word arbitrary have no connection to its meaning.

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12y ago

It is subject to individual will of judgement without restriction. Use decided by one's own discretion

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Q: Why is language defined as an arbitrary system of vocal symbols?
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The system of human communication based on arbitrary symbols is called?

The system of human communication based on arbitrary symbols is called language. Language allows people to convey meaning through spoken, written, or signed symbols that have agreed-upon definitions within a specific cultural context.


Describe any other communication system that like language consists of arbitrary symbols?

Musical notation is a communication system that consists of arbitrary symbols representing sound frequencies and durations. It allows musicians to communicate complex musical compositions across time and space through written sheet music. This system relies on agreed-upon conventions to convey specific musical elements, much like how language uses arbitrary symbols to represent concepts and meanings.


What is bloch's ande targer's definition of language?

Bloch and Trager define language as a system of arbitrary vocal symbols that are used for human communication. They view language as a rule-governed system with a finite set of elements that can be combined to produce an infinite array of meaningful utterances.


Can you explain what language means in one sentence?

Language is the communication of thoughts and feelings through a system of arbitrary signals, such as voice sounds, gestures, or written symbols.


What is a system of symbols and rituals?

A system of symbols and rituals can be defined as a religion. Different symbols and rituals are used in the various religions that are found in the world.


What are 5 characteristics of language?

Arbitrary symbols: Language uses arbitrary symbols, such as words, to represent objects and ideas. Structured rules: Language follows a set of rules governing how words are combined to form meaningful sentences. Generative: Language allows for the creation of an infinite number of novel sentences to express new ideas. Dynamic: Language evolves over time as speakers introduce new words, meanings, and changes in grammar. Social: Language is a shared system of communication used by a community of speakers to interact and convey information.


How is language scientifically defined?

Language is human communication through the use of a system of signs, whether through audible vocal sounds, movements of the body, or through visual or tactile symbols. A language is a single system of signs employed for communication among a particular group of people of a given geographical area.


A system that combines arbitrary symbols to produce an infinite number of meaningful staement?

Sounds like you're trying to define Algebra.


What is the defition of language?

Language is a system of communication that uses symbols, sounds, or gestures to convey meaning. It allows individuals to express thoughts, ideas, and emotions, as well as to interact with others. Language can be spoken, written, or signed.


What is language according to 'bloch and trager'?

a system of arbitrary vocal symbol by means a social group operates


Is heiroglyphics a language?

No, it's a system of writing or something like an alphabet. It has symbols for letters and also symbols for things or ideas.


System flow diagram symbols?

The system flow diagram symbols demonstrate various flows of a process. You can learn more about the system flow diagrams with the help of visual basic and UML language.