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Other

language

Pronunciation: /ˈlaŋgwɪdʒ/

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Definition of language

noun

  • 1 [mass noun] the method of human communication, either spoken or written, consisting of the use of words in a structured and conventional way:a study of the way children learn language [as modifier]:language development
  • a non-verbal method of expression or communication:body language
  • 2a system of communication used by a particular country or community:the book was translated into twenty-five languages
  • Computing a system of symbols and rules for writing programs or algorithms: the systems were developed using languages such as Fortran and Basic
  • 3 [mass noun] the style of a piece of writing or speech:he explained the procedure in simple, everyday language
  • the phraseology and vocabulary of a particular profession, domain, or group:legal language
  • (usually as bad/foul/strong language) coarse or offensive language: the film contains some violence and bad language

Phrases

speak the same language

understand one another as a result of shared opinions or values: when it comes to business, we both speak the same language

Origin:

Middle English: from Old French langage, based on Latin lingua 'tongue'

Spelling help

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language in other Oxford dictionaries

Definition of language in the US English dictionary

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/ sɪˈnɒdɪk /
adjective
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