metalinguistics: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
LowAcademic/Technical
Quick answer
What does “metalinguistics” mean?
The study of language about language, or the analysis of linguistic structure and function.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The study of language about language, or the analysis of linguistic structure and function.
The branch of linguistics that deals with the nature, structure, and function of language as a system, often focusing on metalanguage (language used to describe language) and the relationship between language and cognition, culture, or society.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage; both follow same technical academic conventions.
Connotations
Highly specialized academic field in both varieties; carries same intellectual weight.
Frequency
Equally rare in both varieties, confined to linguistics literature and advanced academic discourse.
Grammar
How to Use “metalinguistics” in a Sentence
The metalinguistics of [noun phrase]Research in metalinguisticsAn introduction to metalinguisticsVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “metalinguistics” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- His metalinguistic observations were astute.
- The course covers metalinguistic approaches to syntax.
American English
- Her metalinguistic analysis was groundbreaking.
- This requires metalinguistic sophistication.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually never used
Academic
Used in linguistics, philosophy of language, cognitive science, and education research
Everyday
Extremely rare; would confuse most non-specialists
Technical
Core term in theoretical linguistics and semiotics
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “metalinguistics”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “metalinguistics”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “metalinguistics”
- Using as synonym for 'linguistics'
- Applying to everyday language reflection
- Misspelling as 'metaliguistics' or 'metalingistics'
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Linguistics is the scientific study of language generally. Metalinguistics is a subfield focusing specifically on language used to describe language (metalanguage) and the analysis of linguistic systems.
Almost exclusively in advanced academic contexts: linguistics journals, philosophy of language texts, semiotics, and some educational research on language awareness.
Yes, 'metalinguistic' is the common adjective form (e.g., metalinguistic awareness, metalinguistic knowledge).
Only for very advanced learners studying linguistics or translation theory. For general English learning, it's unnecessary specialized vocabulary.
The study of language about language, or the analysis of linguistic structure and function.
Metalinguistics is usually academic/technical in register.
Metalinguistics: in British English it is pronounced /ˌmetəlɪŋˈɡwɪstɪks/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌmɛtəlɪŋˈɡwɪstɪks/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Thinking about thinking about language”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
META-LINGUISTICS: like metadata describes data, metalinguistics describes linguistics.
Conceptual Metaphor
LANGUAGE IS A TOOL FOR ANALYSING ITSELF
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary focus of metalinguistics?