Discuss the difference between langue and parole.
Introduction to Linguistics is a notable literary work by ___. A complete discussion of this literary work is given, which will help you enhance your literary skills and prepare for the exam. Read the Main texts, Key info, Summary, Themes, Characters, Literary devices, Quotations, Notes, and various study materials of Introduction to Linguistics.
Answer
Discuss the difference between langue and parole.
Or, Discuss Ferdinand de Saussure’s theoretical linguistic dichotomy: Lague and Parole.
Langue and Parole are vital linguistic concepts. Ferdinand de Saussure (1857- 1913) introduced them in his “Course in General Linguistics” (1916). Langue and Parole are derived from the French language. Langue means “language”, and Parole means “speech” or “speaking.” Let us examine these concepts and understand their differences.
Definition: Langue means the whole system of rules and grammar. It is shared by all people in a language group. Parole means the real use of language by a person. It is actual speech or writing in daily life.
Nature and Structure: Langue is abstract and exists in the minds of people. It is the plan or structure behind the language. Parole is concrete and practical. It is the way we use language in real situations. Langue is hidden and shared, but Parole is open and personal.
Stability and Change: Langue is stable and remains almost the same for many years. It does not change often because everyone agrees to follow it. Parole changes every time someone speaks or writes. It is different from person to person and situation to situation.
Examples: For example, the English rule “subject + verb + object” (like “I eat rice”) is part of Langue. Parole is the personal use of language in real situations. It is how people speak or write in daily life. For example, if someone says, “Me eat rice,” that is Parole. It may not follow the rule.
Visual Discussion: Let us look at the following table.
| Topic | Langue | Parole |
| What it is | Common rules of a language | Real use of language |
| Type | It is in the mind | It is in speaking or writing |
| Use | Same for all people | Different for each person |
| Change | Changes slowly | Changes every time we speak |