Linguistics

/lɪŋˈɡwɪstɪks/

Meaning & Definition

noun

the scientific study of language and its structure, including the study of morphology, syntax, phonetics, and semantics.

She decided to pursue a degree in linguistics to understand the complexities of human language.

the body of knowledge and theories about language.

His research contributed significantly to the field of linguistics, particularly in the area of sociolinguistics.

a field that examines the relationship between language and various aspects of human life, such as culture and cognition.

Linguistics offers insights into how language influences thought and social interaction.

From Latin 'lingua' meaning 'tongue' or 'language' combined with '-istics' as in 'characteristics'.

applied linguistics

The practical application of linguistic theories and principles.

sociolinguistics

The study of how language varies and changes in social groups.

psycholinguistics

The study of the relationship between language and the mind.

phonetics

The study of the sounds of human speech.

syntax

The arrangement of words and phrases to create well-formed sentences.

Lingo

He speaks the lingo of linguistics fluently.

Language nerd

She's such a language nerd, always diving into linguistics.