How Language Reflects Culture

There is a close and intimate connection between culture and language. Not only does it mirror, but also enriches and develops each other. Culture began when speech started (Kroeber, 1923). There are experts who say that you cannot fully understand the culture without understanding or having direct access to the language.

It is a characteristic of culture to be socially transmitted through language. Culture is passed on from one generation to another through language, whether it is verbal or non-verbal, through gestures and signs, orally or in writing. Overall, we could see that communication was actually a manifestation of culture. Children learn language based on what they see in their community. For example, it is difficult for Africans or Koreans to fully grasp the concept of Santa Claus, since it is not significant in their culture and community.

Another thing to ponder on is that in a national culture, there are also subcultures. Subcultures are smaller groups that also have norms, values, beliefs and special languages which make them distinct or different from the national culture and broader society. Subcultures can be based on the age, social class, occupation, politics, education or religious affiliations. An example would be the military language. In this case, understanding the subculture’s language would help us understand the organization structure.

It even encouraged second language learners to immerse themselves in the culture of the language they are learning. Linguists like Krasner (1999) stated that “… for second language learners it is not enough to be learn the linguistics, but it is also important to know the behaviour and patterns in the community which can be significant in the language….”. For example, how to address the elderly and show respect. Another concrete example is like using “You there, come here!” This is grammatically and linguistically correct. However, it is inappropriate to be used to talk to elder or authoritative figures.

There are teachers that would incorporate culture while teaching a second language. For example, to teach about eating utensils, vegetables, fruits or meat, then it would be better to teach about the food culture. In this way, the students are able to understand the concept behind the words and vocabulary being taught. Not only will the student learnt he language quicker, but they would also be able to relate it to their own culture. This understanding would help the, appreciate and understand, on a higher level the other people’s culture.

It is impossible for a culture to exist without languages and languages to exist without having a culture. How we perceive the world and life is represented in how we speak of it. These two do not just reflect each other, but feed each other’s existence.