1. Definition of Language
Definition of Language: Language is an abstract set of signals, used by human beings to communicate. It’s a system of well-organized units that are systematically related.
Many definitions of language have been proposed. Henry Sweet, an English phonetician and language scholar, stated: “Language is the expression of ideas by means of speech-sounds combined into words. Words are combined into sentences, this combination answering to that of ideas into thoughts.” The American linguists Bernard Bloch and George L. Trager formulated the following definition: “A language is a system of arbitrary vocal symbols by means of which a social group cooperates.” Any succinct definition of language makes a number of presuppositions and begs a number of questions. The first, for example, puts excessive weight on “thought,” and the second uses “arbitrary” in a specialized, though legitimate, way.
Another case in Stiawan according to Owen (2006:1), describes the language definition language can be defined as a socially shared Those combinations of symbols and rule governed Those combinations of symbols (language can be defined as a socially acceptable code or conventional system for delivering concepts through the use of symbols and combinations of the desired symbols are governed by the provisions).
The opinions above are similar to what was expressed by Tarin (1989:4), he gives two definitions of the language. First, language is a system that systematically, perhaps also for generative systems. Second, language is a set of symbols as you like it or arbitrary symbols.According to Santoso (1990:1), language is a series of sound produced by said means of a conscious human being.
Another definition, language is a form and not a state (language may be the form and not matter) or something that sounds arbitrary symbol system, or also a system of many systems, a system of an order or an order in the system- the system. The expression proposed by Mackey (1986:12).
According Wibowo (2001:3), language is a system of symbols that are meaningful and articulate sound (generated by said tool) which are arbitrary and conventional, which is used as a means of communicating by a group of human beings to give birth to feelings and thoughts.
Almost similar to the opinion Wibowo, Walija (1996:4), disclose the definition language of communication is the most complete and effective way to convey ideas, messages, intentions, feelings and opinions to others.
Other opinions about the definition of language expressed by Shamsuddin (1986:2), he gave two language understanding. First, language is a tool used to shape the mind and feelings, desires and deeds, a tool used to influence and be influenced. Second, language is a clear sign of a good personality or bad, a clear sign of the family and the nation, a clear sign from the mind of humanity.
While Pengabean (1981:5), argues that language is a system of express and report what happens on the nervous system. Recent opinion of this short paper about the language expressed by Soejono (1983:01), language is a means of spiritual communication is very important in life together.
This abstract concept of language can be concrete through two different mediums: Speech and Writing.