Define Langue.
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"Langue" is a term associated with the structuralist linguistic theory of Ferdinand de Saussure. In structuralism, Saussure distinguished between "langue" and "parole" to explain the structure and functioning of language.
Langue refers to the underlying, systematic structure of a language, representing the shared set of rules, conventions, and principles that govern the formation and interpretation of linguistic signs. It is the abstract, synchronic aspect of language that exists beyond individual instances of speech. Langue encompasses the grammar, syntax, and vocabulary that constitute a language as a coherent system.
Unlike "parole," which refers to the individual acts of speech or utterances, "langue" focuses on the broader, collective aspects of language that enable communication within a community. Langue is considered more stable and enduring, providing the framework within which individual instances of speech gain meaning and significance.
Understanding "langue" is essential for structuralist linguistics as it allows the analysis of language as a structured system with interconnected elements. Saussure's differentiation between "langue" and "parole" has influenced various fields beyond linguistics, such as literary theory, semiotics, and cultural studies, shaping the study of signs, symbols, and systems of meaning.