Final answer:
The formal structure of a language including the rules for phonetics, lexicon, syntax, and semantics is called grammar. It is a complex system that allows for meaningful communication and is naturally acquired by humans at an early age.
Step-by-step explanation:
Components and Structure of Language
The entire formal structure of a language, which consists of observations about its meaningful units of sounds and the rules or principles of making phrases and sentences, is called its grammar. Grammar encompasses a set of rules used to convey meaning through the lexicon, which is the vocabulary of the language. Furthermore, grammar is comprised of two key components: syntax and semantics. Syntax refers to how words are organized into sentences, and semantics pertains to the meaning derived from words and morphemes, the smallest units of language that carry meaning.
Language development is an intricate process that relies on understanding these components and applying the rules of language organically to form coherent and complex statements. This unique human ability is distinct in its systematic use of words and is critical for communication, cognitive development, and conveying abstract concepts. Moreover, the intricacies of language are evident in the natural acquisition and mastery of language skills by young children, highlighting an innate biological predisposition to language learning.