Final answer:
Language systems are characterized by a lexicon, a grammar, and the flexibility to communicate various ideas. These systems enable humans to express a wide scope of thoughts, from concrete to abstract concepts. Language development is an innate human ability that remarkably develops during early childhood.
Step-by-step explanation:
Properties of Language Systems
Language systems possess three fundamental properties that enable effective communication of ideas. Firstly, language has a lexicon, which is a system of words. Every language has its own set of words or symbols, representing ideas, objects, or actions. In English, for instance, 26 letters combine to form over 600,000 recognized words. Secondly, language systems have a grammar, which refers to the rules and structures that dictate how words are combined to form meaningful sentences. Lastly, language exhibits flexibility and creativity, enabling humans to communicate a vast array of ideas, including abstract concepts and feelings. This flexibility distinguishes human language from the more limited systems of communication found in other species.
Each language also reflects the culture and cognitive capabilities shared universally by humans, allowing us to talk about concrete and abstract topics alike. Language development typically occurs naturally and effortlessly during early childhood. It is a remarkable ability of the human species, facilitated by our innate biological predisposition. As a vehicle for expressing thoughts and organizing information, language shapes our perception of the world and our interactions within it.