The Vietnamese word "ngôn ngữ" translates to "language" in English. It is a noun that refers to a system of communication used by a particular community or country. In the context of Vietnamese, "ngôn ngữ" specifically denotes the Vietnamese language, which is part of a larger language group established in East Asia long ago.
In more sophisticated contexts, "ngôn ngữ" can also refer to various forms of expression, including body language, sign language, or even specialized languages used in specific fields like programming or law.
The Vietnamese language has evolved significantly over the centuries. It has incorporated many elements from Chinese, which has led to the creation of "Hán-Việt" (Sino-Vietnamese) words—these are words borrowed from Chinese that have been adapted into Vietnamese. Additionally, influences from French and other languages have enriched the Vietnamese vocabulary, making it diverse and dynamic.