A specialization of coding system. Each instance of this collection is a generative system of signs for transmitting information. These signs are normally conventional and arbitrary in nature, though the case of body language is a (borderline) exception to this.
The reality of any given language consists in its being interpretable by some community (usually human -- cf. human language). This is not quite true of ComputerLanguages, however such languages are only possible insofar as some kind of automation of the process of interpretation (by computers) has been effected. In the case of DeadLanguages, the community may not longer exist (although even if no-one can _speak_ such languages any longer, currently-interpretable texts often remain, cf., for example, Classical Greek).
Languages are most often spoken, but not always (cf. sign language). It is also worth noting that not every system of signs is a language; a certain richness of possible expression is required. Thus Morse code, for example, though a coding system, is not an instance of language. Finally, this collection is not intended to cover the special vocabulary and usages of a scientific, professional or other group, or a characteristic style of speech or writing (e.g. 'Shakespearean language').
The reality of any given language consists in its being interpretable by some community (usually human -- cf. human language). This is not quite true of ComputerLanguages, however such languages are only possible insofar as some kind of automation of the process of interpretation (by computers) has been effected. In the case of DeadLanguages, the community may not longer exist (although even if no-one can _speak_ such languages any longer, currently-interpretable texts often remain, cf., for example, Classical Greek).
Languages are most often spoken, but not always (cf. sign language). It is also worth noting that not every system of signs is a language; a certain richness of possible expression is required. Thus Morse code, for example, though a coding system, is not an instance of language. Finally, this collection is not intended to cover the special vocabulary and usages of a scientific, professional or other group, or a characteristic style of speech or writing (e.g. 'Shakespearean language').