The power of language

Abstract

Language is the natural and the most effective means of human communication. We use it in a host of different ways: to explain complex ideas and concepts; to manage human resources; to negotiate; to persuade; to make our needs known; to express our feelings; to narrate stories; to record our culture for future generations; and to create beauty in poetry and prose. For most of us language is fundamental to all aspects of our lives. The use of language is currently restricted. It is mainly used only in direct communications between human beings and not in our interactions with the systems, services and appliances which we use every day of our lives. Even between humans, understanding is usually limited to those groups who share a common language. In this respect language can sometimes be seen as much a barrier to communication as an aid. A change is taking place, which will revolutionise our use of language and greatly enhance the value of language in every aspect of communication. This change is the result of developments in Language Engineering. This special relationship between language and technology, particularly the ways in which technology helps language to develop and be more effective is the subject of this paper.