Linguistics is the systematic study of the structure and evolution of human language, and it is applicable to every aspect of human endeavor. In modern historical linguistics, we examine how languages change over time, focusing on the relationships between dialects within a specific period. linguistics, the scientific study of language.

Understanding the Context

The word was first used in the middle of the 19th century to emphasize the difference between a newer approach to the study of language that was then developing and the more traditional approach of philology. The differences were and are largely matters of attitude, emphasis, and purpose. Linguists (experts in linguistics) work on specific languages, but their primary goal is to understand the nature of language in general by asking questions such as: What distinguishes human language from other animal communication systems? What features are common to all human languages?

Key Insights

The meaning of LINGUISTIC is of or relating to language or linguistics. How to use linguistic in a sentence. LINGUISTIC definition: 1. connected with language or the study of language: 2. connected with language or the study of….

Final Thoughts

Learn more. At its core, linguistics is the scientific study of language. It is not about learning to speak different languages (though that can be a part of it); instead, linguists are interested in the structure, function, and history of all languages. Linguistics is the scientific study of language, and its focus is the systematic investigation of the properties of particular languages as well as the characteristics of language in general. The Stanford University Department of Linguistics is a vibrant center of research and teaching, with a thriving undergraduate major and a top-ranked PhD program.