Meaning: The quote "Linguistic sounds, considered as external, physical phenomena have two aspects, the motor and the acoustic" by Roman Jakobson, a prominent linguist and semiotician, reflects his influential work in the field of phonetics and the study of language sound systems. In this quote, Jakobson highlights the duality of linguistic sounds as both motor and acoustic phenomena, shedding light on the complex relationship between the physical production of speech sounds and their acoustic properties.

Roman Jakobson was a key figure in the development of structural linguistics, a school of thought that emphasized the analysis of language as a system of interconnected elements. Through his research, Jakobson made significant contributions to the understanding of phonetics and phonology, focusing on the articulatory and acoustic aspects of speech sounds.

The first aspect mentioned in the quote, the "motor" aspect, refers to the physiological processes involved in the production of speech sounds. When a person speaks, the articulatory organs, such as the lips, tongue, and vocal cords, are engaged in intricate movements to create specific sounds. Jakobson's acknowledgment of the motor aspect underscores the importance of understanding the physiological mechanisms that underlie speech production.

On the other hand, the "acoustic" aspect pertains to the physical properties of sound waves produced during speech. As speech sounds travel through the air, they create distinct patterns of vibration that can be measured and analyzed. By drawing attention to the acoustic dimension of linguistic sounds, Jakobson highlights the significance of studying the auditory properties of speech and the ways in which these sounds are perceived and interpreted by listeners.

Jakobson's recognition of the dual nature of linguistic sounds aligns with the broader field of phonetics, which encompasses the study of speech production, transmission, and perception. Phonetics examines the physical characteristics of speech sounds, including their articulatory gestures and acoustic features, and seeks to understand the complex interplay between the motor and acoustic aspects of speech.

Furthermore, Jakobson's quote underscores the interdisciplinary nature of phonetics, as it draws upon insights from anatomy, physiology, acoustics, and psychology to comprehensively explore the multifaceted nature of speech sounds. By acknowledging the motor and acoustic dimensions of linguistic sounds, Jakobson emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to the study of speech, one that considers both the physiological processes involved in speech production and the properties of sound waves as they are transmitted and perceived.

In conclusion, Roman Jakobson's quote encapsulates the dual nature of linguistic sounds as both motor and acoustic phenomena. By recognizing the intricate relationship between the physiological processes of speech production and the physical properties of sound waves, Jakobson's work has significantly contributed to our understanding of phonetics and the complex interplay between the motor and acoustic aspects of speech sounds. His insights continue to resonate in the field of linguistics, shaping our understanding of the physical nature of language and the mechanisms underlying the production and perception of speech sounds.