Linguistic Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”ค
Add to dictionary

linguistic

[lษชล‹หˆษกwษชstษชk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

study of language

Relating to language or linguistics.

Synonyms

language-related, linguistical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
linguistic

Used to describe anything broadly related to language or the study of languages. It is the most commonly used term in academic and professional settings.

  • The linguistic diversity of the region is remarkable.
  • She is pursuing a career in linguistic research.
language-related

Used in more casual or less formal situations to refer to anything connected with language. It is broader and can include practical aspects of language use.

  • There are many language-related apps for learning new languages.
  • We need to solve this language-related problem in our project.
linguistical

An older or less common variant of 'linguistic'. It is rarely used in modern contexts and can sound dated or overly formal.

  • The book included several linguistical studies.
  • His linguistical abilities were impressive, though the term itself is not widely used today.

Examples of usage

  • Linguistic analysis
  • Linguistic diversity
  • Linguistic features
Context #2 | Adjective

communication

Expressed in or relating to language or words.

Synonyms

lingual, verbal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
linguistic

Used when referring to the scientific study or the systematic analysis of language and its structure.

  • Linguistic patterns in different cultures can vary greatly
  • She has a degree in linguistic anthropology
verbal

Used when describing something related to words or speech, often in contrast to written communication.

  • They had a verbal agreement
  • His verbal skills are impressive
lingual

Refers specifically to the tongue or something relating to the tongue; occasionally used in medical or dental contexts.

  • The dentist checked for any lingual abnormalities
  • He experienced minor lingual discomfort after the surgery

Examples of usage

  • Linguistic abilities
  • Linguistic skills

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cognitive Science

  • Research shows that language shapes how we think and perceive the world, a concept known as linguistic relativity.
  • Learning multiple languages can enhance cognitive abilities, such as problem-solving and creativity.
  • Studies indicate that language acquisition occurs most easily during early childhood, when the brain is highly adaptable.

Sociolinguistics

  • This field examines how language varies in different social contexts, influenced by factors like region, class, and gender.
  • Dialects are variations of a language that can indicate where a person is from, making communication richer and more diverse.
  • Code-switching is a common phenomenon where bilingual speakers switch between languages or dialects based on context.

Literature and Poetry

  • Great writers often play with linguistic elements like rhythm, rhyme, and metaphor to evoke emotions and paint vivid images.
  • Some poets are known for inventing words or altering language rules, creating unique linguistic styles that challenge readers.
  • The use of linguistic devices, such as alliteration and assonance, enhances the musical quality of poetry and prose.

Technology

  • Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a field of artificial intelligence that focuses on the interaction between computers and human language.
  • Tech innovations like translation apps utilize linguistic principles to help people communicate across language barriers.
  • Speech recognition systems rely on understanding linguistic patterns to convert spoken words into text effectively.

Origin of 'linguistic'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'linguistic' comes from the Latin word 'lingua,' which means 'language' or 'tongue.'
  • In the 19th century, 'linguistics' began to emerge as a science focused on studying language structure and use.
  • The prefix 'lingu-' appears in many related terms, such as 'bilingual' (speaking two languages) and 'lingua franca' (a common language between speakers of different native languages).

The term 'linguistic' is derived from the Latin word 'lingua', meaning 'tongue' or 'language'. It has been used in English since the early 19th century to describe anything related to language or linguistics, reflecting the growing interest in the study of languages and their structures.


Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,882, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.