Return to Saussure

Introduction In his lecture on June 30, 1911, Ferdinand de Saussure explores the intricate relationship between the value of terms and the meanings of words. His challenge lies in addressing the complex interplay among the concepts of term, value, word, meaning, concept, and auditory image . These closely interrelated concepts often seem interchangeable, yet Saussure insists on maintaining clear distinctions to avoid significant misunderstandings, as language depends on both similarities and differences : "It (language) has no immediately perceptible entities. And yet one cannot doubt that they exist, or that the interplay of these units is what constitutes linguistic structure." (CGL 149) Integrating Derrida's concept of 'hinge' into this discussion (signifying both a break or breach and a joint or link) will help illustrate the dual nature of linguistic units. In this lesson, Saussure also critiques the nomenclaturist view of language, which treats...

As regards language, articulation may refer to the division of the chain of speech into syllables, or to the division of the chain of meanings into meaningful units…one may say that it is not spoken language which is natural to man, but the faculty of constructing a language, i.e. a system of distinct signs corresponding to distinct ideas. [CGL] [26] Introduction: In linguistic studies, traditional approaches often emphasize static rules and intrinsic meanings to explain phenomena such as grammar, phonology, and polysemy. However, Ferdinand de Saussure introduced a revolutionary perspective that focuses on relational and oppositional dynamics within the language system. This article explores how Saussure’s differential approach provides a more nuanced understanding of grammatical facts , phonological distinctions, and polysemy, highlighting the interconnected and active nature of language. Finally, we will briefly explore the Derridean concept of 'the hinge' (la brisure) ...