Language Learning Journal #3

The different types of languages and how we use them are quite interesting.  Language does not necessarily have to refer to someone speaking but rather how they send messages to one another.  Communication fits this description as it encompasses sound, sight, touch, smell, and taste.  However only sound and sight are used to express meaning.  These meanings can also come from the face as well which is an important mode of language. 

 

This tactile mode of accepting languages is a way to use nonverbal languages with a small selection of terms.  With a handshake one is able to say hello or pleased to meet you.  These come in the terms of the visual mode, which can show us just as much as speech, such as the thumbs up sign.  However, the properties of some languages cannot be understood.  This relates to cultural references too, especially when looking at body language.  Body language can be completely different for a westerner than it may be for an Asian.  Some things may be taken as disrespect in one culture while not in another. 

 

The paralinguistic example is easy to understand as well.  This shows us how we can interpret language and actions through the different inflections that people have.   If you hear someone speak when they are laughing than you can tell they are in a good mood.  As later discussed such paralinguistic examples have different types of airflow and use the respiratory system in a much different way.  Furthermore, the discussion about the use of them mouth, larynx and a myriad of other body parts was interesting.  I never knew that so many different sections of the mouth played a role in speech.   Additionally, the section about ears seemed important as it stated how sound is pinpointed. 

 

To sum it all up there are many ways to understand and use speech.  You can either visually witness it or hear it through the actual speaking of the language.  Either way there is still communication of meaning.            

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