Meaning: Ferdinand de Saussure, a Swiss linguist, is widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the field of linguistics. The quote provided encapsulates one of the key objectives of the scientific study of languages as articulated by Saussure. In this quote, Saussure highlights the importance of tracing the history of all known languages, while acknowledging the limitations and challenges associated with this endeavor.

Saussure's emphasis on tracing the history of languages is rooted in the belief that understanding the historical development of languages is fundamental to comprehending their structure, evolution, and usage. By delving into the historical trajectory of languages, linguists can uncover the intricate processes that have shaped linguistic systems over time. This historical perspective allows for a deeper understanding of the underlying principles that govern language evolution and change.

Furthermore, Saussure's assertion that this task is only possible to a very limited extent and for very few languages underscores the complexity and diversity of the world's linguistic landscape. The sheer number of languages spoken across the globe, coupled with the challenges of accessing historical linguistic data, presents formidable obstacles to the comprehensive study of all known languages. As a result, linguists are often compelled to focus their attention on a select number of languages for which sufficient historical evidence is available.

Saussure's approach to the scientific study of languages laid the groundwork for the structuralist and synchronic perspectives that have significantly influenced linguistic theory and methodology. In his seminal work, "Course in General Linguistics," Saussure introduced key concepts such as the distinction between langue (language system) and parole (speech act), the notion of the linguistic sign, and the importance of synchronic analysis, which focuses on the structure of a language at a particular point in time.

The historical dimension of language study, as advocated by Saussure, has been instrumental in shaping the field of historical linguistics. Historical linguistics seeks to reconstruct and analyze the evolutionary paths of languages by examining linguistic data from different time periods. Through the comparative method, historical linguists compare related languages to identify common linguistic features and reconstruct their shared ancestral forms. This approach enables linguists to trace the historical development of languages and discern patterns of language change and diversification.

Saussure's call to trace the history of all known languages also resonates with the broader interdisciplinary field of philology, which encompasses the study of historical texts, language evolution, and linguistic diversity. Philologists engage in the meticulous analysis of ancient manuscripts, inscriptions, and other linguistic artifacts to decipher the historical trajectories of languages and unearth valuable insights into the cultural, social, and cognitive dimensions of human communication.

In conclusion, Ferdinand de Saussure's quote encapsulates the profound significance of tracing the history of languages within the scientific study of linguistics. While acknowledging the inherent challenges and limitations, Saussure's emphasis on the historical dimension of language study has had a lasting impact on the field of linguistics, inspiring scholars to unravel the intricate tapestry of linguistic evolution and diversity. Through the lens of historical linguistics and philology, researchers continue to explore the rich and complex histories of languages, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of human language and communication.