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Synonyms

linguistic

American  
[ling-gwis-tik] / lɪŋˈgwɪs tɪk /

adjective

  1. of or belonging to language.

    linguistic change.

  2. of or relating to linguistics.


linguistic British  
/ lɪŋˈɡwɪstɪk /

adjective

  1. of or relating to language

  2. of or relating to linguistics

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Other Word Forms

Etymology

Origin of linguistic

First recorded in 1830–40; linguist + -ic

Explanation

Use the adjective linguistic to describe anything related to language, like the linguistic difficulties you might have if you visit a place where you do not speak the same language as everyone else. The word linguistic combines the noun linguist, meaning "a master of language, one who uses his tongue freely," with the adjective suffix -ic. It describes something that’s related to language, such as a linguistic theory about why some people drop the g sound in saying words ending in -ing. Or, if you want to brag about how good your vocabulary is, then rave about your linguistic skills.

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Vocabulary lists containing linguistic

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

West Bengal and Bangladesh share linguistic, cultural and ethnic ties.

From BBC Jul. 6, 2026

Accepting the majority’s linguistic premise did not require accepting its legal conclusion.

From Slate Jun. 26, 2026

In holding up a mirror to the healthcare system, showrunner R. Scott Gemmill also wanted to explore the linguistic diversity of its practitioners, allowing his actors of color to reconnect with their mother tongues.

From Los Angeles Times Jun. 3, 2026

The decision has fuelled anxiety among West Bengal's roughly 35 million Muslims, many of whom share linguistic and cultural ties with neighbouring Bangladesh.

From Barron's May 25, 2026

There are some features of linguistic change that are worth bearing in mind as we go on.

From "The Invention of Science" by David Wootton

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