The Role and Significance of Language in Culture - Essay Example

Language, nationality and regional differences Across the globe, there are numerous communities and social groupings. The main disparity between these groupings is the ability to use different languages. A language is a form of identity for a particular language. People from different communities may use language as a way to identify their own. In an argument by Donesch-Jezo language is perceived as a unique feature between people who may understand it (13). The author further argues that, there is a significant sense of belonging within people who interact with a similar language (Donesch-Jezo 13). From this realization, one may be of the assumption that knowledge of a particular language incorporates one in a community where they are appreciated. Apart from the personal benefits, nations where different languages are in existence may boast of originality and ethnic wealth. This is based on that, people may interact on many platforms. For instance, nations with diverse languages create a common language that increases interactions between people from different communities. However, people with no knowledge of the common language can speak in their native language and still be understood (Donesch-Jezo 22). What may be the advantages of having to speak in a communal language? Should one provide preference to their native language or a common language? How do people from different communities communicate while speaking different native languages? From a personal perspective, having the knowledge of a native language is a sense of pride and belonging. In addition, one can speak in multiple languages. This increases the ease of understanding between people from different communities. However, while in a foreign country the native language may not be useful since people embrace different communications methods. In addition, most foreign nations create a common language that improves the interaction of foreigners. The native language becomes significant with an encounter with a person from the same community. Language acts as a symbol of unity and togetherness. In my native country, people from different communities communicate effectively. This is based on that over the years they have developed way that they could understand each other. On most occasions, a common or national language is used as a mode of communication. However, people find pride in communicating in their native languages (Donesch-Jezo 17). This increases the development of an ethical foundation in the country hence creating a symbol of unity and pride. There is a unique experience in the ability to speak in different languages in different contexts. The language used while I interact with family and friend may be different to the language accepted in school and work. With the objective of creating unity and togetherness, nations create a rule that require people to speak in a common language in workplaces and schools. This is based on that a common language is required to communicate at public places. In addition, this enables interaction with people from different countries. This difference creates a feeling of freedom and communal pride. For instance, the language I may speak with my family may not be the common language. This increases my ability to interact with the original nature of my community. In addition, a special ethnic connection is created between family members. The same could be said of friends. Considering that people from different communities may become friends, a common language between them may be developed. In an argument by Donesch-Jezo people tend to develop a language that is different from other languages with the objective of communicating in a unique way (11). This enables the creation of slangs. Slang is an original language creation to suit a certain audience but generated from a common language. With the knowledge of different languages, one is enabled to speak in different languages in the same conversation. However, this is dependent on the person or the audience. Additionally, people with the same knowledge of the languages may be able to understand the blend. Donesch-Jezo is of the assumption that numerous communities develop a language that tend to incorporate features from the common language and the native language (23). This enables them to increase people they may have a conversation with. In addition, it is a common feature in people who can speak in multiple languages. This linguistic feature is determinant of the audience and context. In a professional setting or school it may be inappropriate to use different language in a conversation. This is because it may create a communication barrier between the speaker and the audience. However, this communication mode may be appropriate and unique if used in family settings and social groups. Moreover, speaking in multiple languages in a conversation enhances the creation of a common language or slang. My ability to speak in disparate languages has increased my level of awareness on my sense of identity. In addition, it has increased my ability fit in social groups and develops linguistic feature that enables my interaction with people from different communities. Donesch-Jezo asserts that the ability of a person to speak in their primary language greatly influence their sense of identity (25). The author further points out that, a person develops a connection and unique relationship with people from their community (Donesch-Jezo 25). Regardless of my advances in life, my return to my native town and speaking their language creates an important and special connection with them. In addition, my ability to speak their language and common languages has increased my ability to fit into numerous social groups. This is based on that I am able to have a conversation with different people at different contexts. In my social groups, we interact with other people through a common language or develop slangs that we may understand. For instance, English may be applicable in the interaction with people from different communities. From the information provided, one may point out that linguistic features embraced by a person are based on their ability speak in multiple dialects. In addition, the ability of a person to have a conversation with the majority people in different contexts increases their ability to belong into different social groups. Work Cited Donesch-Jezo, Ewa. “The role of output and feedback in second language acquisition”. Esuka-Jeful, 2.2 (2011): 9-28. Read More