言語

• Reading: げんご
• Romaji: gengo
• Kanji breakdown: 言 (gen) — say, word; 語 (go) — language, narrate
• Pronunciation: /ɡe.n.ɡo/

Meaning

Language. A system of communication used by a particular group of people.

A formal or academic noun for language in the abstract sense, more technical than 言葉 (kotoba). Used in academic, linguistic, and technological contexts. Common compounds include 言語学 (gengogaku, linguistics), プログラミング言語 (programming language), and 言語能力 (gengo nouryoku, language ability).

Examples

1. 世界には何千もの言語が存在する。 There are thousands of languages in the world.
2. 新しいプログラミング言語を勉強している。 I'm studying a new programming language.
3. 言語の違いを超えて友達になれた。 We became friends despite the language barrier.

Usage Guide

Context: academia, technology, education

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Composed of 言 (say, word) and 語 (language, narrate). Both characters relate to speech, and their combination covers language as a comprehensive system of verbal communication.

Cultural Context

Era: Classical

Generation: All ages

Social background: Educated