Natural language facts for kids
A natural language is a language that people use every day for talking and writing. Think of languages like English, Hindi, or Chinese. These languages grow and change naturally over time.
Natural languages are very flexible. This means people can speak them in slightly different ways. They are not strict like computer codes.
Some natural languages have simpler versions. For example, Basic English and Special English are simpler forms of English. They make it easier for more people to understand.
An artificial language is different. It is created for a special reason. These languages are very exact and follow strict rules. Examples include the symbols used in mathematics, logic, or computer programming languages.
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What is a Natural Language?
A natural language is any language that humans learn and use naturally. We use these languages to communicate with each other. They develop over many years within communities.
These languages are learned by listening and speaking. Babies and children pick them up from their families and surroundings. This is different from learning a language in school.
How Natural Languages Work
Natural languages are always changing. New words are added, and old ones might be used less. This makes them very adaptable. People can express many different ideas and feelings using them.
They are also a bit messy! There are often exceptions to rules. For example, in English, we say "go" but "went" (not "goed"). This is part of their natural growth.
Natural vs. Artificial Languages
It's helpful to compare natural languages with artificial ones.
- Natural Languages:
* Developed by people over time. * Used for everyday talk and writing. * Flexible and can have many meanings. * Examples: English, Spanish, Japanese.
- Artificial Languages:
* Created for a specific purpose. * Very precise and follow strict rules. * Used in areas like computers or math. * Examples: Python, Esperanto, math symbols.
Artificial languages are designed to be clear and exact. They don't have the same flexibility as natural languages. This is why computers can understand them easily.
Why Natural Languages are Important
Natural languages are key to human culture. They help us share stories, history, and knowledge. They also let us build relationships and work together. Every culture has its own unique natural language.
They allow us to think and understand the world around us. Without language, it would be very hard to learn new things or share our thoughts.
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Images for kids
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A robot, which might use artificial languages.
