Question

How does langue differ from parole?

• A. Langue is the theoretical system, while parole is its practical application
• B. Parole is universal, while langue is personal
• C. Langue refers to written language, while parole refers to spoken language
• D. There is no distinction; both mean the same

Answer 1

Answer:

A. Langue is the theoretical system, while parole is its practical application

In linguistics, "langue" refers to the abstract, underlying system of rules and conventions that govern a language, while "parole" refers to the concrete, individual acts of speaking or writing, essentially the actual use of language in practice; essentially, "langue" is the system, and "parole" is the individual's application of that system, as defined by Ferdinand de Saussure.