The terms language, langue, and parole are concepts that were introduced by the Swiss linguist Ferdinand de Saussure to help explain the structure and function of language. Here are the differences between these concepts explained in easy words:
In simpler terms, we can think of langue as the abstract system of language that underlies all language use, while parole is the concrete manifestation of this system in actual speech and writing. Language is the broadest term that encompasses both langue and parole.
To further illustrate the differences between these concepts, let’s use an example. Consider the sentence “I am going to the store.” Language refers to the entire system of communication that enables us to understand and use this sentence. Langue refers to the underlying structure of the sentence, such as the subject-verb-object order, the use of the present continuous tense, and the meaning of the words themselves. Parole refers to the specific way that a particular speaker might use this sentence, such as their accent, tone of voice, and emphasis on certain words.
In summary, the differences between language, langue, and parole are as follows: language is a system of communication, langue is the underlying structure of a particular language, and parole is the individual’s use of language in a particular context. Understanding these concepts can help us better appreciate the complexity and richness of human language.