Final answer:
The concept that language is socially constructed is true, as it relies on collective human agreement for its meanings. Language both reflects and shapes our perceptions and social practices, as evidenced by cultural variations in meaning and the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis. Moreover, language is a powerful tool in social interactions, influencing power dynamics and individual development.
Step-by-step explanation:
The statement that language can be described as being "socially constructed" because it has no inherent meaning other than that assigned to it by humans is true. Languages are systems of symbols to which societies collectively agree to assign meaning. This concept aligns with the social construction of reality, as discussed by pragmatists and postmodernists who argue that language does not necessarily describe an objective reality, but rather the word itself has whatever meaning is assigned to it by the group of speakers. Moreover, language not only reflects our reality but also shapes it. This phenomenon is exemplified by the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis of linguistic relativity, where differences in language lead to differences in perception and thought.
Words and expressions, often specific to particular languages, embody cultural beliefs and practices. For instance, certain numbers may denote bad luck in one culture and be neutral in another, influenced heavily by linguistic associations. As language evolves, it continually shapes our understanding and interaction with the world, from concrete concepts like describing objects to abstract notions like emotions and social relationships.
Language also reflects social power dynamics and can be used to either perpetuate oppression or challenge it. It is because of this intricacy and the ability to convey both concrete and abstract ideas that language plays a critical role in human communication and social function. Even children's rapid acquisition of language suggests an innate biological predisposition towards learning language, emphasizing its fundamental role in human development.