Language

The system of verbal or gestural symbols a community uses to

communicate.

Language

The way we know something is through the words we use to describe it.

In the public dialogue,

language allows us to share our thoughts, question the ideas of others, and invite or audiences to consider our positions.

Use of Language

Language is Ambiguous

Thought(referen

ce)

Symbol Referent

When speakers forget that words

do not have the same meaning for everyone, they unintentionally create ambiguity for their audiences.

One way to clear up some of this ambiguity is to use concrete language.

Language is ambiguous

IdiomsAn idiom is a fixed, distinctive expression whose meaning is not indicated by its individual words.http://www.youtube.com/user/bbclearningenglish#g/c/5945726A989B480B

Appropriate labels“Politically correct speech”Negro/ Crippled/ Fag

Language and Culture

Gender Inclusive Language

Language and Gender

Problematic PreferredBusinessman Business person, business

executive

Waitress Server

Salesman Sales agent, sales representative

Spokesman Spokesperson, representative

Workmen Workers

Foreman Supervisor

Knowing the correct definition and usage of

words is important because accurate language affects not only your meaning but also your credibility.

Three simple steps will help you improve the accuracy of your language

1. Check definitions2. Work with someone who has strong

language skills3. Study the language

Language and Accuracy

Spoken language is more

interactive

Spoken language is more casual

Spoken language is more repetitive

Language and Public Speaking

Language That Creates Memorable Imagery Simile (Like/ As)

- He eats like a pig. Metaphor

- There is fire in my mouth Personification

- Those words just sat there staring at me. They wouldn’t leave and they wouldn’t explain themselves. “You’re fired,” they said. And they refused to tell me anything else.

Language, Imagery, and Rhythm

Language That Creates a Pleasing Rhythm

Parallelism Repetition Alliteration Antithesis

Language, Imagery, and Rhythm