Language functions are understood to be the series of human needs for which it is required. It is a subject that is widely investigated by linguistics and communication. It is for this reason that, based on each of the factors on which language affects during communication processes, a series of functions have been developed, these being both dominant and subordinate, according to the role they fulfill. These may vary according to the author who is consulted, since throughout history, there have been several linguists who have developed theories about the functions of language.
According to the theories exposed by Karl Bühler, there are only three functions of language, these being: the symbolic or representative function, centered on the referent factor of communication, is oriented towards the relationships that exist between different beings, objects and facts. found in the outside world; the symptomatic or expressive function, which originates from the emitting factor in the communicative process, this refers to feelings and emotional expressions; Finally, there is the signaling or appealing function, whose dependence was established on the receiving factor of the message, in which orders, mandates, suggestions, among others, are shown.
Michael Halliday, outlines three other functions: the ideative one, which encompasses the relations that the speaker maintains with the outside world, allowing him to give his perception of it; the interpersonal, allowing social relationships to be established with other individuals and the textual, which infers on how the previous ones develop, being these a way of generating cohesion between what will be expressed and the situation in which the participants of the communication.
