Functions of LanguageFunctions of Language(Linguistics)(Linguistics)

By

Wafa Mansoor Buriro

Before we move towards the functions of language, first we should understand what language is.

LanguageLanguage

“Language is a form of communication using words, either spoken or symbolized with our writing system, usually structured with grammar.”

Everything in this world has got some particular functions, for example functions of sun are to provide us the light, heat, energy or the function of an aero plane is to save time and facilitate people to get to their destination very quickly . Likewise the language has also got some functions.

A Medium of Expression A Medium of Expression

It provides us a way to express our feelings, thoughts, imaginations and views.

Keeping the RecordKeeping the Record 

It is used for keeping the record of many events or we can say that it helps us making the history.

ConnectivityConnectivity

Language keeps us connected with the world. For example if we know a language (reading and writing) then we can be known at internet through many web pages or sites like Facebook, yahoo, hotmail etc.

Power of ThoughtPower of Thought

 

The language also gives us the power of thinking, because in order to think we need a language.

IdentityIdentity

Language gives us an identity, like in the world most of the nations have got their names due to their language. For example France from French, England from English, and Germany from German etc.

LiteratureLiterature

It is also a function of language that has given birth to literature, the different ways of expressing the feelings, emotions and thoughts. From different ways we mean the different genres of literature like novel, drama and poetry.

Constituent of Social LifeConstituent of Social Life

The language helps us build up our social life like saying “Good Day” to people we meet, or giving respect to others by saying “Dear Sir/Madam” or “Yours Faithfully” etc.

Means of Conveying Means of Conveying InformationInformation

It is also a means of conveying information. Suppose to guide someone we say “You will get G11 bus to get to the Sadder Bazaar.”

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