Final answer:
Duality in language refers to the concept that language operates at two levels: one of meaningless sounds, and another of meaningful words and sentences. It highlights the complexity of human linguistic expression and the capacity for infinite meanings generated from a finite set of sounds.
Step-by-step explanation:
The term duality, or double articulation, in linguistics, refers to a complex feature of human language wherein it operates on two levels simultaneously. At the first level, we have distinct sounds (phonemes) that do not hold intrinsic meaning but can be combined to create meaning at the second level, which is that of words and sentences.
This concept is crucial for the flexibility and productivity of language, allowing a finite set of sounds to combine into an effectively infinite set of potential meanings and messages. Duality allows for the intricate expression of human thought through language and supports the understanding and analysis of linguistic phenomena such as code-switching, where speakers may alternate between languages or dialects depending on context.
Understanding duality is essential for appreciating the nuance in linguistic identity and communication.