The study of language in context. This looks at how hidden meanings, social cues, and physical surroundings influence what a speaker actually means (e.g., understanding sarcasm). Key Theoretical Concepts
The study of the sound system of a language. It looks at how sounds (phonemes) are organized and used to distinguish meaning, such as the difference between the "b" in bat and the "p" in pat . Key Concepts in Language and Linguistics
Linguistics - LibGuides at California State University, Fullerton The study of language in context
Linguists typically break language down into five fundamental components: It looks at how sounds (phonemes) are organized
The study of word formation and structure. This involves analyzing morphemes , which are the smallest units of meaning (e.g., the word "unfriendly" contains three: un- , friend , and -ly ).
The study of literal meaning. It explores how words and sentences convey specific concepts and how those meanings relate to one another.