Synchronic Dimension in Study of Languages

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Introduction

Synchronic dimension in study of languages is the most compelling concept discussed by this writer. The writer generally introduces the structuralist point of view into linguistics and this is initially marked by giving a special relief to the use of synchronic dimension while studying a language (Saussure, 1913). This dimension is considered to be totally different from diachronic, which refers to historic (Saussure, 1913). The main argument is that the present meaning of both words as well as sentences cannot be reduced down to just a historical study. This may be considered to be obvious but according to Saussure, linguistic had been seen to be historical through considerations of the largest limited structure as well as grammar (Saussure, 1913). The main point is that significance depends on the nature of a system of language being used which is giving by a number of different equilibrium laws which mainly constituents of the relative stability of the linguistic system meaning at the present time in consideration of this system. Many people tend to refer to language when reduced to its simpler elements to be a naming process only. But at some point, this conception is highly criticized. This is due to its assumptions that ready-made ideas exist before words themselves (Saussure, 1913), that is, it does not distinguish if a given name is either vocal or psychological in its nature. It also forces us to make an assumption that linking both names as well as its object is a very simple process, something that is generally true (Saussure, 1913). This shows that linguistic unit is a double entity which is formed through association of two terms. This has been seen with consideration to the speaking-circuits that both of all the terms that are involved in linguistics signs are psychological and are usually united in the brain through use of an associated bond (Saussure, 1913). Linguistic sign is said to unite not only a thing and its name but also a concept and its sound-image too. This is not only material sound or just purely a physical thing but also psychological imprint of the sound, that is, the impression that it makes on our senses (Saussure, 1913). The sound-image is seen to be sensory and it only exists as material just in sense, and also as a by way of opposing it to other terms that associates it (Saussure, 1913). The psychological character of the sound-images that are generally used in our communication become apparent after we observe our own speeches that we make. We are able to recite or speak to ourselves without even moving our lips or tongue through mentally selecting a verse (Saussure, 1913). Since the words of our language are regarded as sound-image, we have to avoid the use of phonemes that make up those words. In conclusion, a linguistic sign can be said to be a two-sided psychological entity. Both concept, as well as sound-image, are intimately united and each of the two words depends on each other. Despite where we find the meaning of the Latin word, “Arbor” or the word that is designated by Latin to mean a tree, it will be clear that only the associations that are sanctioned by this language will appeal to us so that we can conform to this reality and thus ignore what others may be imagining of
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Synchronic Dimension in Study of Languages. (2019, Oct 10). Retrieved April 20, 2024 , from
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