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Multiple Meanings of the Words
English is one of the natural languages used to communicate. It has words which can have multiple meanings and
different meaning fits into the statement according to its context.
For example, • His future is very bright. • Today, the Sun is very bright.
In the above sentences the word "bright" is playing a different role. This kind of situation can be easily handled by
humans using their intelligence and language skills. However, teaching a computer to understand and interact in
human language is a very challenging task. Now, let us study how Natural Language Processing makes it possible
for the machines to understand and speak in the Natural Languages just like humans.
Features of Natural Languages
Natural languages have the following key features:
• They are governed by set rules that include syntax, lexicon, and semantics.
• All natural languages are redundant, i.e., the information can be conveyed in multiple ways.
• All natural languages change over time.
Human Language Vs Computer Language
Human and computer languages serve as tools for communication, each tailored to its unique purpose. While
human languages evolve naturally for interaction and expression, computer languages are systematically designed
with logic and precision for programming and computation.
Human Language
Human language is the medium used by humans to communicate and interact with others. It consists of syntax
and semantics, collectively referred to as grammar, which governs the arrangement of words to form meaningful
sentences. Humans communicate in various languages such as English, Hindi, Spanish and German. For example,
English uses nouns, pronouns, verbs, adjectives and other parts of speech to form sentences for spoken or written
conversations. When such conversations are enriched with past experiences and knowledge, they form intellectual
exchanges between individuals. Over time, human languages evolve, adding new words to dictionaries based on
their usage in specific contexts.
Communication via sound involves the transfer of vibrations through the eardrum to the brain, where they are processed
as nerve impulses. These impulses are interpreted by the brain, enabling humans to respond appropriately to situations.
Computer Language
Computer language, on the other hand, is used by programmers to create software that enables humans to interact
with electronic devices such as computers. The central processing unit (CPU), known as the “brain” of the computer,
interprets the instructions provided. The computer’s response manifest as output or the execution of commands.
Computers primarily communicate using binary language, consisting of 0s and 1s. However, this binary language is
difficult for humans to use directly. To address this, high-level programming languages closer to human language
have been developed, such as Java, C++, Python, etc. These languages make it easier for humans to interact with
and program computers. Every computer language has its own syntax and semantics which needs to be followed
strictly otherwise the computer gives an error and further processing of the task will not be done.
What is NLP?
Natural Language Processing (NLP) is a subfield of Artificial Intelligence that focuses on enabling computers,
through specialised programs, to perform tasks such as speech recognition, translation, and the analysis and
extraction of large amounts of natural language data. The goal is to facilitate successful interactions between
humans and machines, delivering the desired output.
234 Artificial Intelligence Play (Ver 1.0)-X

