language use

USAGE SUMMARY

"language use" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe how a person is using language, as in this example: "Simon's language use was very creative and thought-provoking."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Language use is an organic and constantly evolving process.

The New York Times

The book connects language use at home with socioeconomic status.

The New York Times

Language use is a remarkable fact about human beings.

Encyclopedia Britannica

No one's language use is calcified into an unwaveringly formal or informal register – not even Harding's.

The Guardian - Opinion

Texting has added a new dimension to language use, but its long-term impact is negligible.

The Guardian - Books

Arp's halftime talk was a flurry of signing and animated body language: "Use the body.

The New York Times - Sports

In later years Kripke wrote several influential papers on linguistic meaning and language use.

Encyclopedia Britannica

✓ First language use (L).

Asian-Pacific Journal of Second and Foreign Language Education

We program language use into their brains.

SEP

Does this language use parentheses in comparisons?

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Linguists make distinctions between different kinds of language-use.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When analyzing texts, consider both the explicit meaning and the implicit assumptions conveyed through "language use".

Common error

Avoid making broad statements about a group's "language use" without sufficient evidence. Nuances exist within communities.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "language use" is that of a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the act or manner of employing language, as evidenced by examples from Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

37%

News & Media

32%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "language use" is a frequently employed and grammatically sound noun phrase across diverse fields, including science, news, and encyclopedic resources. As noted by Ludwig, this phrase serves primarily to describe and analyze how language is employed in different situations, with its register shifting based on the specific context. When discussing this topic, it's important to avoid overgeneralizations and acknowledge contextual nuances. Alternatives such as "linguistic application" or "verbal communication" may offer more precise descriptions depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

linguistic application

This alternative emphasizes the practical implementation of language skills.

verbal communication

This focuses specifically on spoken or written communication.

speech patterns

This refers to the characteristic ways in which someone speaks.

expression of language

This phrase highlights how language is conveyed or manifested.

application of language

This alternative underscores the practical implementation of language.

communication skills

This term refers to the ability to effectively convey and receive information.

manner of speaking

This refers to the specific style or way someone uses language.

linguistic behavior

This term relates to the observable actions related to language.

use of terminology

This specifies the words and phrases employed in a particular context.

discourse practices

This term encompasses the broader social and cultural aspects of language use.

FAQs

How can I analyze a character's "language use" in literature?

Consider their vocabulary, syntax, tone, and register. Does their "language use" reveal their social class, education, or personality?

What is the difference between "language use" and "language proficiency"?

"Language proficiency" refers to someone's overall ability in a language, while "language use" focuses on how they actually employ language in specific contexts. You can have high proficiency but limited "linguistic application".

How does context affect "language use"?

Context profoundly shapes "speech patterns". For instance, formal settings demand different "expression of language" than casual conversations.

What are some strategies to improve my "language use"?

Read widely, practice writing in different styles, and seek feedback on your "application of language". Pay attention to how skilled communicators employ "verbal communication".