Italian · Culture & Society
lingua
language
Beginnernoun · f
Definition
The system of communication used by a particular country or community.
Example
L'italiano è una lingua bellissima.
Italian is a very beautiful language.
Etymology
The word 'lingua' traces back to the Latin 'lingua', meaning tongue, and reflects the connection between spoken and written forms of communication throughout history.
How & Where It’s Used
'Lingua' is used in formal settings (linguistic studies, education) and informal conversations. It encompasses regional dialects and variations, particularly notable in different Italian regions.
Literary Heritage
It features in famous works such as Dante's 'Divina Commedia', discussing the nature of language and communication.