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Lecture 2. Distinguishing Between The Concepts of Language and Speech

The document explores the key differences between language and speech, defining language as an abstract system of symbols and rules for communication, while speech is the physical act of using that language in real-time. It highlights that language is stable and rule-governed, whereas speech is fluid and influenced by individual characteristics and context. Understanding these distinctions enhances comprehension of human communication.

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8 views20 pages

Lecture 2. Distinguishing Between The Concepts of Language and Speech

The document explores the key differences between language and speech, defining language as an abstract system of symbols and rules for communication, while speech is the physical act of using that language in real-time. It highlights that language is stable and rule-governed, whereas speech is fluid and influenced by individual characteristics and context. Understanding these distinctions enhances comprehension of human communication.

Uploaded by

nurjanmajm
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PPTX, PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
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Distinguishing Between

the Concepts of
Language and Speech
Understanding Key Differences
in Communication

Nurjan Jalgasov
Introduction

• Language and speech are fundamental to


human communication.
• Despite being closely related, these two
concepts have distinct meanings.
• This presentation will explore the
differences between language and speech.
Defining Language

• Language is an abstract system of symbols


and rules used for communication.
• It is the structured framework that allows
for the creation and understanding of
meaning.
Language as a System of
Signs
• Signifier: The form (e.g., sounds, written
words).
• Signified: The meaning associated with the
form (e.g., the concept of a "cat").
• Language is composed of a combination of
these signs.
Key Components of Language
• Syntax: Sentence structure and word
order.
• Morphology: Word formation and
structure.
• Semantics: Meaning of words and
sentences.
• Phonology: Sound system of language.
Language and Its Forms

• Language can be spoken, written, or


signed (e.g., sign language).
• It transcends the form in which it is
communicated, as the underlying
system of rules remains the same.
Defining Speech

• Speech is the actual physical use of


language.
• It involves producing sounds and
articulating words to convey meaning.
• Speech is dynamic and occurs in real time.
Characteristics of Speech

• Involves articulation: the formation of


sounds using the vocal apparatus.
• Prosody: The rhythm, pitch, and stress that
help convey meaning.
• It’s influenced by social context, emotions,
and individual speech patterns.
Speech and Its Real-Time
Nature
• Unlike language, speech is spontaneous.
• It can change based on conversation,
mood, and interaction with others.
• Speech is often imperfect, with
hesitations, pauses, and corrections.
Language vs. Speech
• Language: An abstract, structured system
of communication.
• Speech: The real-time, physical act of
using that language to communicate.
The Relationship Between
Language and Speech
• Language provides the framework,
while speech is the manifestation of
that framework.
• Speech relies on language but varies
in its real-world use.
Analogy for Understanding

• Think of language as a blueprint for


building a house.
• Speech is the actual construction of
that house—the real-world execution
of the blueprint.
Variations in Speech

• Speech can vary due to factors like:


• Regional accents
• Speech disorders
• Emotional state
• These variations show how speech can differ,
while language remains consistent in its rules.
Stability of Language vs.
Fluidity of Speech
• Language: Governed by stable, established
rules (syntax, morphology, etc.).
• Speech: More fluid, subject to individual
differences and spontaneous adjustments.
Language and
Communication
• Language allows us to form complex
thoughts and convey them to others.
• It’s the foundation for expressing
ideas, forming sentences, and
understanding meanings.
The Role of Speech in
Communication
• Speech enables the direct, audible
expression of thoughts.
• It involves additional elements such as
tone, emotion, and pace that help
convey deeper meaning.
Key Differences Between
Language and Speech
• Language is abstract, rule-governed,
and stable.
• Speech is the real-time act of using
language, affected by context and
individual characteristics.
Examples of Language and
Speech
• Language: Grammar rules,
vocabulary, sentence structures.
• Speech: Pronunciation of words,
intonation, the speed of speech, and
pauses in conversation.
The Interdependence of
Language and Speech
• Both language and speech are interdependent:
• Language is the system; speech is its real-world
use.
• Without language, speech would be meaningless.
• Without speech, language would not be expressed.
Conclusion
• Language and speech are two essential components of
communication, but they have distinct roles.
• Language provides the rules and structure for meaning,
while speech is the physical act of communication.
• Understanding the difference enhances our
comprehension of how humans communicate.

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