language

[/ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ/]

nounfemininepl: languages / línguas

língua

1. a system of communication consisting of sounds, words, and grammar used by a particular community or nation

English is a widely spoken language.

O inglês é uma língua muito falada.

2. the particular words and style of expression of a person, group, or profession

The language of science can be difficult to understand.

A linguagem da ciência pode ser difícil de compreender.

3. a system of signs, symbols, or gestures used for communication

Sign language is used by deaf communities.

A linguagem de sinais é usada por comunidades surdas.

4. manner or style of speaking or writing

He used strong language in his argument.

Ele usou uma linguagem forte em seu argumento.

Synonyms

Regional Variations

General Brazilian

língua / linguagem

Both terms are commonly used; língua refers to a specific language, linguagem to language as communication system

Portugal

língua / linguagem

Same usage as Brazilian Portuguese; formal and standard

Colloquial

gíria

Used when referring to slang or informal speech patterns

speak the same language - estar na mesma sintonia

lose language - perder as palavras

language barrier - barreira linguística

foul language - linguagem obscena/palavrões

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