Characteristics and Functions of Language

Characteristics of Sign Language

Sign language has a number of characteristics that allow us to characterize it:

1. Arbitrariness. For Saussure, the bond linking the signifier and signified is radically arbitrary. Arbitrary means "unmotivated." Thus, the idea of "flower" is not bound by any relation with the sound sequence flower. Proof of this is that in other languages, the signifier is different, for example, fleur in French. However, other linguists, such as Benveniste, prefer to speak of it as conventional.
2. Linear. The signifier unfolds in time and is therefore a "timeline." In contrast to visual signifiers (a photograph, for example), acoustic signifiers have no more than the timeline: their elements are presented one after the other, forming a chain. Thus, in delivering flowers, we emit one sound after another: /f/ /l/ /o/ /r/. The written representation is also a clear example: the succession in time is replaced by the linear space of graphic signs.
3. Discrete and Discontinuous. The signs are defined with precision and work for global presence or absence, i.e., as a unit.
4. Mutable and Immutable. In synchrony, the sign is immutable, so that communication is possible between speakers. However, in diachrony, it can change, altering either the expression or its content. This fact explains the evolution of languages.
5. Double Joint. We can establish two levels or joints in all linguistic signs:
   • First joint: Monemes (morphemes and lexemes). Words can be distinguished and have expression and content.
   • Second joint: Phonemes. They have the ability to distinguish words but only possess expression.

Functions of Language

1. Referential or Representational Function: To objectively represent the fact that we wish to communicate, i.e., without the involvement of our feelings or personal preferences (The bus passes at four-twenty).
2. Expressive or Emotive Function: To express the speaker's subjective attitude (What infuriates me is waiting that long!).
3. Appellate or Conative Function: To influence the listener, demanding attention or moving them to act through orders, advice, etc. (Put on your raincoat because it is raining. If I were you, I would not talk like that. Waiter!).
4. Aesthetic or Poetic Function: It acts when language is used to call attention to itself, and it is given in a special way in literature. Thus, the author's interest is that we notice the sounds of the sentence.
5. Phatic Function or Contact: When we use language to keep communication and maintain the attention of the listener, the receiver, i.e., to ensure communication remains: Can you hear me? Pay attention.
6. Metalinguistic Function: When we use language to talk about language itself. Dictionaries and grammars make great use of metalinguistic function.