Q.1 what are the functions of language?

Ans. LANGUAGE:
Language is a system of communication that uses words, symbols, and gestures to convey
meaning. It’s how we express our thoughts, feelings, and ideas to others. We use language to
communicate with one another, share information, and understand the world around us. It
allows us to connect, build relationships, and express our unique perspectives. Language can
be spoken, written, or signed, and it varies across different cultures and regions. It’s an
incredible tool that helps us connect and understand one another.
Language has several important functions that help us communicate and convey meaning.
FUNCTIONS OF LANGUAGE:
1. Expressive Function: This function allows us to express our thoughts, feelings, and
emotions. We can use language to convey happiness, sadness, anger, excitement, and
more. For example, we can say “I’m so thrilled!” to express our enthusiasm.
2. Referential Function: The referential function of language helps us refer to people,
objects, and ideas. We can use words to identify and describe things in the world
around us. For instance, we can say “That car is fast!” to refer to a speedy vehicle.
3. Directive Function: Language serves as a means to give and receive instructions,
requests, and commands. We can use language to direct others’ actions or ask for
specific information. For example, we can say “Please pass me the remote” to give a
directive.
4. Informative Function: Language enables us to share information and knowledge. We
can use language to provide facts, explanations, and descriptions. For instance, we can
say “Did you know that the Earth revolves around the sun?”
5. Persuasive Function: Language allows us to persuade and influence others. We can
use words and rhetoric techniques to convince someone to adopt a certain viewpoint
or take a specific action. For example, we can say “You should definitely try this new
restaurant. The food is incredible!”
6. Social Function: Language plays a crucial role in social interactions and building
relationships. We use language to greet, introduce ourselves, engage in small talk, and
maintain conversations. For instance, we can say “Hey, how’s it going?” to initiate a
conversation with a friend.

Q.2 what is the difference between spoken and written language?

SPOKEN LANGUAGE:
Spoken language refers to the use of words, sounds, and gestures to communicate verbally. It
involves the immediate production and reception of language through speech. Here are some
key characteristics of spoken language:
 1. Real-Time Interaction: Spoken language allows for real-time communication and
immediate feedback. It enables people to engage in conversations, dialogues, and
discussions where ideas can be exchanged spontaneously.
2. Non-Permanent: Spoken language is transient and ephemeral. Once words are
spoken, they disappear into the air, leaving no physical trace. This makes spoken
language more fleeting and less permanent compared to written language.
3. Tone and Intonation: Spoken language conveys meaning not only through words but
also through tone of voice, intonation, and emphasis. These vocal cues add nuances to
the message, such as expressing emotions, sarcasm, or emphasis.
4. Non-Standardized: Spoken language often includes informal expressions,
colloquialisms, slang, and regional accents. It may vary across different social groups,
cultures, and regions, making it less standardized compared to written language.
WRITTEN LANGUAGE:
Written language involves the use of symbols, such as letters and characters, to communicate
through written text. It allows for communication beyond immediate interaction and has its
own distinct characteristics:
1. Permanence: Written language provides a permanent record of communication. Once
written, words can be preserved and revisited over time. This makes written language
valuable for documentation, record-keeping, and sharing information across time and
space.
2. Edited and Revised: Unlike spoken language, written language allows for editing,
revising, and refining the message before it is shared. It provides an opportunity to
carefully craft sentences, structure ideas, and ensure clarity.
3. Standardized: Written language often follows standardized rules, grammar, and
spelling conventions. It is typically more formal and adheres to specific writing styles,
such as academic writing or professional communication.
4. Lack of Non-Verbal Cues: Written language lacks the non-verbal cues present in
spoken language, such as tone of voice and facial expressions. As a result, it relies
solely on the words themselves to convey meaning, which can sometimes lead to
misinterpretation or ambiguity.

Q.3 Describe performance, competence and concept.

CONCEPT:
When we talk about a concept, we’re referring to an idea or a general understanding of
something. It’s like having a mental picture or framework that helps us make sense of the
world around us. Concepts can be related to various topics, like science, art, philosophy, or
even everyday life. They help us categorize, understand, and communicate about different
things. For example, the concept of love, friendship, or even something more specific like the
concept of time. Concepts are like building blocks that help us navigate and make sense of
the world.
COMPETENCE:
Competence refers to a person’s overall knowledge and understanding of a particular subject
or skill. In the context of language, competence refers to a person’s underlying knowledge of
grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, and other aspects of a language. It’s like having all the
tools and rules in your toolbox that you need to communicate effectively.
PERFORMANCE:
Performance, on the other hand, refers to how well a person can actually use their language
skills in real-life situations. It’s like putting those tools and rules into action. Performance can
be influenced by various factors such as confidence, fluency, and the ability to adapt to
different contexts.

Q.4 a) Define human language? a) What is zero morpheme?

HUMAN LANGUAGE:
Human language is a system of communication that we use to express our thoughts, ideas,
and feelings. It's how we talk, write, and even use gestures to convey meaning. Human
language is unique because it allows us to share complex information, express abstract
concepts, and engage in social interactions.Language consists of elements like words,
grammar, syntax, and pronunciation.
For example, when we speak, we use words and sentences to express our thoughts. We can
ask questions, tell stories, or share information.

ZERO MORPHEM: A zero morpheme, also known as a zero marker or null morpheme,
is a linguistic term used to describe a morpheme that has no phonetic or written form but still
carries meaning in a sentence. It’s called “zero” because it is not expressed overtly. In simpler
terms, a zero morpheme is like a silent player in a sentence. It adds meaning or grammatical
information without being pronounced or written explicitly.

Q.5 a) What is standard form of language? b) what is ding Dong theory?

STANDARD FORM OF LANGUAGE
The standard form of language refers to the accepted and widely recognized variant of a
language that is typically used in formal settings, education, and official communication. It is
often considered the "correct" or "prestigious" form of the language.
In English, for example, the standard form is based on the variety known as Standard English.
It is the form of English that is taught in schools, used in professional settings, and commonly
found in written materials like books, newspapers, and official documents. It follows
grammatical rules, conventions, and pronunciation norms that are widely accepted.
DING-DONG THEORY
The Ding-Dong Theory was proposed by Dutch linguist Jan Baudouin de Courtenay in 1913.
This theory suggests that early human languages developed from onomatopoeia – words that
imitate or suggest natural sounds – and were used to describe events or objects. For example,
words like “boom” or “meow” might have been used by early humans when they heard trees
falling or cats meowing. This theory has since been largely rejected due to its lack of
scientific evidence and its reliance on speculation rather than data-driven analysis.

Q.6 Write a not on pragmatics.

PRAGMATICS
Pragmatics is a branch of linguistics that deals with how language is used in real-life
situations and how meaning is conveyed beyond the literal interpretation of words. It explores
the ways in which context, social norms, and shared knowledge influence the meaning of
utterances.
In everyday communication, we often rely on more than just the words themselves to convey
meaning. Pragmatics helps us understand how speakers use context, tone of voice, facial
expressions, and gestures to convey their intended messages. For example, the meaning of the
sentence “It’s cold in here” can vary depending on whether it is said with a shiver or a smile.
Pragmatics also involves studying speech acts, which are actions performed through
language. For instance, when someone says “Can you pass the salt?” they are not just making
a statement but also performing the act of making a request. Understanding the intended
speech act helps us interpret the meaning of the utterance accurately.
Cultural and societal factors also play a role in pragmatics. Different cultures may have
different norms and expectations regarding politeness, directness, and the appropriate use of
language in various social contexts. Pragmatics helps us navigate these cultural differences
and understand how to communicate effectively in different settings.