What is the Difference Between English Linguistics and Applied Linguistics?

Both linguistics and language teaching take language as their subject. However, while linguistics focuses on the general principles that govern the construction and operation of all human languages, applied linguistics aims to apply these principles to practical, real-world scenarios.

Linguistics: Exploring the Fundamentals

Linguistics is a branch of science that deals with the scientific study of human language. It seeks to describe languages accurately, find generalizations within the descriptions, and draw conclusions about the general nature of human language. Saussure's structuralist approach highlights the linguistic sign as a mental unit, defined by the connection between a concept and a sound image.

Main Branches of Linguistics

Linguistics is divided into two major fields: microlinguistics and macrolinguistics. Microlinguistics studies the structure of language itself, including pronunciation, grammar, morphology, syntax, and semantics. On the other hand, macrolinguistics looks at language in broader contexts, including its social, cultural, and technological implications.

Applied Linguistics: Practical Applications

Applied linguistics acts as a bridge between the theory of linguistics and the practice of language teaching. It focuses on how language is learned, used, and taught. The primary concerns of applied linguistics include second language acquisition theory, pedagogy, and the interrelationships within these areas.

Scope of Applied Linguistics

The scope of applied linguistics is broad, encompassing various subfields such as: Language teaching and learning Language testing Psycho- and neurolinguistics Sociolinguistics Discourse analysis Computational linguistics Translation studies

Purpose of Applied Linguistics

The purpose of applied linguistics is to apply the knowledge derived from general linguistic research to practical issues. It aims to improve the teaching and learning of languages, enhance literacy, and address various language-related problems. Applied linguistics involves interdisciplinary fields such as psychology, sociology, and technology, addressing topics like second language acquisition, language teaching methodology, and language pathology.

Conclusion

The distinction between linguistics and applied linguistics reflects the difference between theoretical inquiry and practical application. Linguistics provides the foundational knowledge, while applied linguistics translates this knowledge into tangible, real-world solutions. Understanding both fields can greatly enhance the effectiveness of language education and language-related practices.

Further Reading

Language as a Social Phenomenon
Language is a system of arbitrary vocal symbols that permit all people in a given culture to communicate. Linguistics is the scientific study of human language, examining its structure and the principles that govern it.

Linguistics: The Science of Human Language
Linguistics aims to describe languages accurately, find generalizations within the descriptions, and draw conclusions about the general nature of human language.

Vocabulary

Microlinguistics: A branch of linguistics that studies the structure of language itself. Macrolinguistics: A branch of linguistics that looks at language in broader contexts, including its social, cultural, and technological implications. Second Language Acquisition: The process of learning a second language, often studied in applied linguistics. Pedagogy: The art and science of teaching, with a focus on methods and principles of instruction. Discourse Analysis: The study of language use in specific contexts and the relationships between language and social, cultural, or cognitive phenomena.