Language and Communication in Humans and Animals

Language is simply the manner through which we communicate.  Communication is possible for humans through any number of forms.  These include, but are not limited to, speech and sign language.  Communication via language is necessary for a transfer of knowledge to take place.  In order for this to occur it is necessary that more than one person comprehend the language in question, be it English, Xhousa or American Sign Language (ASL).  If others can not comprehend what is being communicated to them it is because they do not understand the language, or dialect, being used. 




For a language to be understood it is necessary for the speakers to have an understanding of the rules or grammar of the language in question.  The sounds that are used to communicate make up the phonology.  These sounds are attributed meaning.  The forms and meanings of sounds are usually arbitrary, except in the case of onomatopoeia. Knowledge of the sound (or sign) system is not the only thing necessary for the understanding and usage of a language.  The manner in which the words are structured is the morphology.  Words are than used to make up phrases; the way in which this is done is governed by syntax.  In addition a deep knowledge of the meaning and sounds of words, known as semantics, is necessary for the understanding of a language, as is knowledge of the words themselves, the lexicon.