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DNA as a Language: A Linguistic Comparison with Human Spoken and Written Systems

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  • Jack Cohen,
  • Barak Akabayov
Jack Cohen
Department of Chemistry and Data Science Research Center, Ben-Gurion University, Israel
Bio
Barak Akabayov
Department of Chemistry and Data Science Research Center, Ben-Gurion University, Israel
Bio
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36253/Substantia-3980

Published 2026-06-10

Keywords

  • DNA language,
  • morphemes,
  • codons,
  • gene expression,
  • linguistics

How to Cite

Cohen, J., & Akabayov, B. (2026). DNA as a Language: A Linguistic Comparison with Human Spoken and Written Systems. Substantia. https://doi.org/10.36253/Substantia-3980

Copyright (c) 2026 Jack Cohen, Barak Akabayov

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License.

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Abstract

The traditional metaphor of DNA as a language is examined through systematic analysis, using formal linguistic categories rather than relying on heuristic analogies. By exploring aspects of phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, and diachrony, the study investigates the structural parallels between genetic sequences and human spoken and written languages, while also identifying the fundamental limitations of this comparison. The analysis indicates that DNA displays distinct symbolic units, a combinatorial organization, strict ordering constraints, context dependence, and historical evolution. These characteristics resemble written language more closely than they do speech. However, DNA fundamentally differs from human language in several ways: it lacks intentionality, reference, generativity, and representational meaning. Genetic “meaning” is defined by its operational and causal roles, focusing on biochemical functions rather than semantic interpretations. This study emphasizes that DNA should not be viewed as a literal language but rather as a system of symbols grounded in chemistry. The comparison with linguistics is most useful for establishing distinctions rather than for expanding metaphorical interpretations.

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