"Langue" refers to the abstract, systematic, and underlying structure of a language. It encompasses the shared knowledge and rules that speakers of a particular language possess, governing how words and sounds combine to form meaningful communication. In other words, "langue" represents the universal, stable, and synchronic aspect of language that exists independently of individual speakers.
On the other hand, "parole" refers to the actual instances of language use in everyday communication. It is the concrete, individual expression of language by speakers. "Parole" is dynamic and variable, as it reflects the personal choices and contextual influences that shape linguistic output. Every time someone speaks or writes, they are engaging in "parole," which is the diachronic aspect of language.
The relationship between "langue" and "parole" is analogous to that of a chess game and its individual moves. "Langue" is the underlying set of rules, strategies, and conventions that define how the game is played. "Parole" is the actual execution of these rules through specific moves on the board, influenced by the player's skill, context, and choices.
Saussure's distinction between "langue" and "parole" laid the groundwork for structural linguistics. He argued that the study of language should focus on "langue" rather than "parole" because analyzing the underlying structure allows for a more systematic understanding of language. This approach shifted the emphasis from historical evolution to the synchronic analysis of language as a system of signs and rules.
"Langue" and "parole" also illustrate the social nature of language. "Langue" is a shared system that unites a community of speakers, providing a basis for mutual comprehension. However, each individual's "parole" reflects their unique perspective and choices, allowing for personal expression and creativity within the constraints of the language system.
Furthermore, Saussure's concepts have influenced various fields beyond linguistics, such as semiotics, anthropology, and literary studies. The differentiation between the abstract, stable "langue" and the dynamic, individual "parole" has been applied to analyze signs and symbols in various cultural contexts, shedding light on how meaning is constructed and communicated.
In conclusion, the concepts of "langue" and "parole" introduced by Ferdinand de Saussure provide a fundamental framework for understanding language as a structured system that combines universality and individuality. The distinction between the abstract rules of language ("langue") and its concrete instances of use ("parole") offers insights into the complex interplay between social conventions and individual expression, shaping the way we communicate and make sense of the world.
