The Oxford Languages definition of language Language Essay

Linguistic: The Oxford Languages Definition of Language
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Linguistic: The Oxford Languages Definition of Language
Introduction
We communicate in different ways, through written and verbal words or using signs, voicings, and gestures. Animals and machines also communicate in their daily routines. Language is important because it enables communication between human beings, machines, and animals. However, machines communicate with the help of human beings. According to the Oxford Languages definition of language is "the method of human communication, either spoken or written, consisting of using words in a structured and conventional way." The authors can add certain aspects to the definition to make it unique or specific in a particular context. While the definition includes essential elements, humans use other symbolic and figurative representations to pass messages. Moreover, modern society has advanced in many ways, and animals (and other species) are incorporated into the human environment. The definition can be improved to include the different beings and elements humans use and interact with while communicating.
The Diverse Elements and Forms of Language
First, the definition should be expanded to include language existing between animals, as well as animals and humans (Joseph, 2017). The definition only focuses on language as a form of human communication. This is not true when we consider the diversity within the human surroundings. In this regard, language becomes a tool for communication between humans and other species, including animals and birds. Emphasizing human communication disregards other vital elements in the way humans live and interact with their surroundings.
All species communicate, which implies that there must be a form of 'language' or 'symbols' that are used to pass these messages (Lukač, 2018). This can be demonstrated by the way domestic animals, such as dogs, communicate. Humans can develop a form of 'communication language' with dogs, cows, cats, birds, and other species. This is usually done through repetitive training that builds an understanding between the animal and the owner. Therefore, the definition must include the elements of communication between humans and other species.
There is no proof that language exists between animals. Since they are part of the human surroundings, it is essential to incorporate their communication forms within the definition. Animals learn to communicate through social interactions. People communicate with their pets through symbols, whistling, and certain words or voices. Through training, they learn to do tasks as commanded. 'Language' in animals can be seen in many ways. For example, birds such as flamingos swing their bodies to pass specific messages. Also, certain birds' species produce certain sounds to indicate a change in season or weather patterns. Humans also observe animal behaviors to understand the weather season. In this regard, we can say that language is not for humans alone.
Non-living things like computers also use language and always communicate with humans. The internet has provided a broad array of communication...