general linguistics: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowFormal, Academic
Quick answer
What does “general linguistics” mean?
The scientific study of language as a universal human phenomenon, focusing on its nature, structure, and common properties across all languages, rather than the study of a single specific language.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The scientific study of language as a universal human phenomenon, focusing on its nature, structure, and common properties across all languages, rather than the study of a single specific language.
The theoretical and philosophical branch of linguistics concerned with developing frameworks and models to understand the fundamental principles underlying all human languages, including syntax, phonology, semantics, and morphology.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical or definitional differences. The phrase is used identically in academic contexts in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral academic term in both varieties.
Frequency
Equally low-frequency and specialized in both UK and US academic circles.
Grammar
How to Use “general linguistics” in a Sentence
[student/lecturer] of general linguistics[textbook/course] on general linguistics[principles/theories] in general linguisticsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “general linguistics” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The programme is designed to train students to analyse language from the perspective of general linguistics.
American English
- She aims to generalise linguistic principles in her work on general linguistics.
adjective
British English
- He took a general-linguistics approach to the problem.
- The general linguistics perspective is crucial here.
American English
- This is a core general-linguistics principle.
- Their general linguistics background was evident.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Extremely rare to non-existent.
Academic
Primary domain. Used in university course titles, textbook names, and research descriptions within linguistics departments.
Everyday
Virtually never used.
Technical
The core technical term for the broad, theoretical study of language.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “general linguistics”
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “general linguistics”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “general linguistics”
- Using 'general linguistics' to mean 'basic linguistics' or 'introductory linguistics'. While introductory courses may bear the name, the term itself denotes a theoretical scope, not a difficulty level.
- Confusing it with 'generative linguistics' (a specific theoretical framework within general linguistics).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. General linguistics is the theoretical study of language as a system. A polyglot learns to speak many languages, while a general linguist studies the underlying rules and structures that make language possible.
General (or theoretical) linguistics seeks to understand language for its own sake, building models and theories. Applied linguistics uses insights from linguistics to solve real-world problems, such as language teaching, translation, or speech therapy.
Not necessarily. Deep knowledge of one language can provide ample data for theoretical inquiry. However, familiarity with diverse language structures enriches one's understanding of language universals and variation.
No, it is a highly specialised academic term. In everyday conversation, people would simply say 'linguistics' or 'the study of language'.
The scientific study of language as a universal human phenomenon, focusing on its nature, structure, and common properties across all languages, rather than the study of a single specific language.
General linguistics is usually formal, academic in register.
General linguistics: in British English it is pronounced /ˌdʒen(ə)rəl lɪŋˈɡwɪstɪks/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌdʒɛn(ə)rəl lɪŋˈɡwɪstɪks/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think 'GENERAL' as in 'for all' – it's the linguistics that applies to ALL languages, not just one.
Conceptual Metaphor
LINGUISTICS IS A MAP: General linguistics provides the overall map of the 'territory' of human language, while specific language studies are detailed maps of individual regions.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary focus of general linguistics?