language: system for communicating ideas and feelings using sounds, gestures, signs, or marks.
www.nidcd.nih.gov/health/glossary/glossary.asp
abstraction: a concept or idea not associated with any specific instance; "he loved her only in the abstract--not in person"
http://dict.die.net/abstraction/
doyouknowhim asked:
Quote:Do you use language to express abstract concepts such as virtues ? If so how and if not why?
Using the above 2 definitions, I would say I use both. Providing unconditional positive regard to some whom one loves could be interpreted as using an abstraction. Confirming to some by telling them how I feel could be interpreted as using language.
In my opinion, both ways need to be used. The question reminds me of 'walking the walk and not just talking the talk.'