Discuss the definition of Language and the linguistic concepts of competence and performance.

INTRODUCTION M each linguists agree that there is no comprehensive definition of Language. However, talking to is generally described as a system of sounds employ to link sound using talking to and clips to essence (Finegan & antiophthalmic factor; Besnier 1989, p. 1). Language put up be described as a symbolic system in which sounds and piths ar assigned to each other(a), allowing populace to communicate what we are thinking and how we are feeling. In other words, there is an supreme aspect of language with meanings assigned to words and sounds. As key let looseers of a language, we know that words are arbitrarily given meaning to express ideas. For example, a give is sole(prenominal) a book beca mapping we vex assigned that item meaning to the sound and word book. The word for book could have been any other word. Native utterers have the knowledge to hit that the tie-up between words, sounds and meanings are non a inseparable one. Sounds represent objects . consideration also helps us to interpret the meaning of utterances. COMPETENCE AND proceeding Noam Chomsky introduced two terms, referred to as competence and performance. According to Chomsky, competence refers to a native-born speakers knowledge of a language (Finch 2000, p.17). As native speakers of English, for example, we have linguistic competence of the English language sounds, excoriate structures and word meanings.

This knowledge allows speakers to speak the language fluently. However, this knowledge is for the or so part subconscious and, as a result, the speaker does not always realize that they hav e this knowledge. As an example, I can jump,! dance and run very easily. However, I cannot apologise the neuro-science involve that makes these physical actions possible. How native speakers possess this knowledge and use it to speak a language is similar to the above example. Finch ( 2000, p.17), explains that, If you neediness to compass a full essay, order it on our website: OrderCustomPaper.com

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