language - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
language Word Meanings
- a system of communication using sounds, symbols, or gestures
- the method of human communication, spoken or written
- a particular form or variety of such a system
language Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
language Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ/
US
/ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ/
language Word Etymology
language = langue (French) + -age (suffix indicating action or result). Origin: Latin ‘lingua’ → Old French ‘langue’ → English ‘language’. Imagine a vibrant marketplace where people from different cultures exchange ideas and stories through the unique sounds and symbols of their languages.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
First I press my lips and push air to start a sound, then I move my tongue to shape it. I pull the next sounds along, adjust my breath, and place each piece into a smooth stream of speech. As I hear the result, the feeling shifts from rough to clear, and I keep the pace steady. Speaking becomes a small act of building a thread, letting the idea rise as the words meet the moment.
Real Context
Language is a living system for human communication, used to share ideas, tell stories, and coordinate actions. It evolves as cultures mix, borrowing words and creating new terms. A language can be spoken, written, or signed, and it has layers such as phonology, grammar, vocabulary, and pragmatics. For learners, language is both a skill and a window into culture: mastering pronunciation helps you be understood, while reading exposes idioms and social conventions. When people refer to someone’s language, they may mean their native tongue or the particular variety used in a given situation.
Usage Reminders
- Language is countable when naming a specific system (a language) but uncountable when talking about language in general.
- Use 'languages' for multiple systems.
- Distinguish language from dialect; a dialect is a variety within a language.
- Pronounce language with two syllables: LAN-guage.
- Common collocations: language learning, mother tongue, language skills, language family, sign language.
Common Misconceptions
- A language is the same as a dialect.
- A language never changes once it is established.
- There is only one correct form of a language.
- Sign languages are not real languages.
- Learning a language is just about grammar and vocabulary, not culture.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: Language is a broad system and a name for a specific set of rules; learners often mix up language with dialect and forget about countability and collocations.
Learning Tips
- Practice pronunciation daily to improve intelligibility.
- Learn common collocations with language, such as language learning and language skills.
- Differentiate language from dialect in examples.
- Talk with native speakers about cultural topics to deepen understanding.
- Read authentic material in several languages to see varied usage.
- Keep a multilingual glossary of key terms related to language.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'language'?
A.A system of communication
B.A small insect
C.A type of fruit
D.A piece of furniture
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence below uses the word 'language' correctly?
A.She is learning a new language at school.
B.The butterfly has a beautiful language.
C.He speaks many languages in the garden.
D.Let's water the language with care.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a word similar to 'language'?
A.Dialect
B.Chair
C.Apple
D.Butterfly
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'language'?
A.Laugh
B.Jump
C.Silence
D.Hat
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving communication?
A.They play outside in the sunshine.
B.She bakes cookies for her friends.
C.A teacher explaining a new language to students.
D.He helps his neighbor with gardening.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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