Expressive Language refers to the use of language to convey thoughts, needs, or ideas to others – essentially, it is a person’s output of language. This includes spoken words and sentences as well as other modes of expression like writing, signing, or using communication devices. Strong expressive language skills mean an individual can formulate and produce messages with appropriate vocabulary, grammar, and narrative structure. Weaknesses in expressive language might be seen in limited vocabulary, short or ungrammatical sentences, or difficulty explaining ideas.
SLPs frequently assess and treat expressive language delays or disorders in children (e.g. late talkers or those with developmental language disorder) and in adults (e.g. aphasia following a brain injury), working to expand vocabulary usage, improve sentence formulation, and enhance the clarity and complexity of the individual’s spoken or written output.
McLaughlin, Maura R. “Speech and Language Delay in Children.” American Family Physician 83 (2011).
Leonard, Laurence B. “Is Expressive Language Disorder an Accurate Diagnostic Category?” American Journal of Speech-Language Pathology 18 (2009).
