The Essential Design Features of Human Language

In the study of linguistics, we often encounter assumptions about language validity. These assumptions are not sustained merely through arguments, but must be rigorously tested and proven or disproven through empirical research.

Arbitrariness

Language maintains only a conventional relationship with the reality to which it refers. The link between the signifier (sound/form) and the signified (meaning) is not natural or necessary. This concept has three main aspects:

• Signifier-Signified Relationship: There is no inherent link between the word chair and the object it represents.
• Phonological Distinction: The fact that Spanish may have lost the distinction between long and short vowels (unlike some other languages) does not alter the core meaning of words like silla (chair).
• Conceptual Differentiation: There is nothing natural in the way some languages choose to differentiate between certain concepts while others do not.

Vocal-Auditory Channel

Language is primarily generated in the vocal organs and perceived by the ear. While this is the primary channel, humans also utilize secondary channels, such as writing.

Learnability (Transmissibility)

Any human language can be learned. However, if a language is not acquired during the critical period (early childhood to adolescence), the subject may struggle to assimilate any language normally.

Discreteness

The sounds used in language are significantly different from one another. These distinct units (phonemes) are established together and oppose each other to create meaningful contrasts.

Creativity and Productivity

The potential number of unique utterances in any human language is infinite. Language is constantly created and adapted based on need.

Cohesion

This is the language's ability to interrelate its various elements. When composing a phrase or text, its elements must be cohesive and logically linked.

Contextuality

The environment or context surrounding the communication determines the content and interpretation of the message.

Displacement

This is the ability to relate to situations far away in space or time (past, future, or hypothetical). Humans are the only species known to possess this feature of language fully.

Prevarication (Dissimulation)

Sequences can be generated that are false or unverifiable. The ability to lie or generate misleading statements is unique to human language.

Double Articulation or Duality of Patterning

Language functions simultaneously on two structures: one acoustic (phonemes) and one grammatical (morphemes/words). Meaningless units (phonemes) combine to form meaningful units (words).

Rapid Fading (Extinction)

Spoken signs dissipate quickly, clearing the channel to issue new ones. Other forms of communication, such as writing, gestures, or smells, are more durable.

Narrative Function

Languages allow for the recovery and reporting of prior statements, often through indirect style (e.g., reported speech).

Reflexivity (Metalinguistic Function)

Only through human language can we talk about aspects of language itself (e.g., defining a word or discussing grammar).

Feedback

Each person is simultaneously sending and receiving signs. This constant monitoring always occurs in spoken language.

Total Feedback

This involves the specialization of signs, where the speaker monitors their own output, considers non-verbal cues (like gestures), and modifies their speech based on this self-monitoring.

Directional Transmission

Sound waves travel directionally, meaning reception is limited by the range and direction of the sound source.

Portability (Interchangeability)

While the primary code is oral, the message can be transferred to other media, such as writing or recording.

Semanticity

This is the ability of linguistic signs to convey meaning. We communicate to give information through signs linked to specific concepts.

Cultural Transmission (Tradition)

Language proficiency is the result of a learning process that takes place within a given community; it is not purely inherited biologically.

Variation

Variation is constant in all languages. It varies in several ways:

• Spatial Variation: Different dialects across geographical regions.
• Situational Variation: Register changes depending on the communication context (e.g., speaking differently to a boss versus friends).
• Personal Variation: The unique linguistic history (idiolect) of the subject.
• Temporal Variation: Changes in language over time.