# language

/ˈɫæŋɡwədʒ/ (US) · /lˈæŋɡwɪdʒ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/language
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. human communication system

noun · CEFR A1

a system of words and grammar used by a group of people or a country.

For teachers: a structured system of communication used by a particular community or country, consisting of a lexicon and grammatical rules.

- Learning a new language is a great way to understand a different culture.
- The researchers studied how the language evolved over centuries as different tribes migrated across the continent.

### 2. specialized jargon

noun · CEFR B2

the specific words used by people in a particular job or group.

For teachers: the specialized vocabulary or style of expression used by a particular profession or social group.

- I found it hard to understand the legal language in the housing contract.
- The report was written in highly technical language that required a specialist to interpret for the board of directors.

### 3. computing

noun · CEFR B1

a set of instructions or codes used to tell a computer what to do.

For teachers: a formal system of signs and rules used for writing computer programs.

- Python is a popular language for people who are just starting to learn coding.
- The software was rewritten in a more modern language to improve its processing speed and security features.

### 4. profanity

noun · CEFR B2 · Informal

rude or offensive words.

For teachers: vulgar or offensive vocabulary; often used as a euphemism for swearing.

- Please watch your language while there are children in the room.
- The comedian was known for using colorful language that occasionally offended the more conservative members of the audience.

### 6. animal communication

noun · CEFR B1

the sounds or signs that animals use to talk to each other.

For teachers: a system of signs, sounds, or gestures used by non-human species to convey information.

- Scientists are still trying to decode the complex language of dolphins.
- Bees use a sophisticated body language known as the waggle dance to inform the hive about the location of nectar.

## Examples

- She speaks three different languages fluently.
- Learning a new language requires consistent practice and a willingness to make mistakes while speaking with others.
- The evolution of human language is a central topic in linguistics, as researchers attempt to understand how complex grammar emerged from simpler forms of communication.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.