A linguist is someone who is proficient in a language, studies linguistics, and can specialize in theoretical or applied linguistics. They may focus on the spoken word and can be polyglots. Linguists can affiliate with professional organizations and differ from lexiphiles.
A linguist can be many things, but is usually described as someone who is somewhat proficient with a particular language, including ancient languages. The term can be used to describe a person who specializes in linguistics, which is the study of language, or it can refer to someone who is skilled in the translation, interpretation and application of a language. At the same time, this title can be used for someone who is fluent in multiple languages.
In an academic sense, a linguist is a person who deals with and studies linguistics. This is the scientific study of language, both theoretical and practical. Such a person may study or professionally practice theoretical or applied linguistics.
Examples of theoretical linguistics include grammar, syntax, semantics, origin and phonetics. Applied linguistics includes the practical use of knowledge of a language, such as an interpreter, translator, speech therapist, or language teacher or professor.
Although the spoken word and the written word often intertwine, a linguist typically focuses more on the spoken word than the written word. A polyglot, or someone proficient in multiple languages, for example, might be considered a linguist. So may a person proficient in the written word be, but this will depend on the length and depth of his area of study in linguistics.
There is often some distinction among linguists themselves, but in the ordinary sense of explanation, the title may be given to any person who is highly educated in both the practical and theoretical elements of a given language or languages. There are both associations and professional organizations where a linguist can affiliate with other specialists who share their interests. One such organization is the Chartered Institute of Linguists, which publishes its own journal.
A linguist differs from a lexiphile, a modern term for someone who loves words, because a linguist is educated in an entire language and not just specific words, and has more theoretical knowledge of a language than just a large vocabulary.
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