Why “Language” is being discussed
The most recent Hacker News stories and comments contributing to this topic's mentions.
Productivity can be measured in many ways. Neoclassical economists will tell you there’s only one. In this case, is the change of this software from one language to another/…
by glenpierce · Oct 31, 2026
The question should really be the other way around - LLMs are just computer programs, and in general, computer programs are theoretically deterministic. Given the same inputs an…
by antonvs · Oct 31, 2026
> and is probably difficult to update (original writers long gone) The new program won't be any easier on that front. It literally doesn't have an original writer. So the new pr…
by lbreakjai · Oct 31, 2026
That XKCD comic is demonstrative of the opposite of what OP is talking about. Python and JavaScript are on opposite sides of the spectrum about what is included in the language…
by animal_spirits · Oct 31, 2026
Couple of notes. If a system is outputting text for humans to read, it’s not “serious data”. It’s megabytes. You can go out today and buy an off-the-shelf Apple desktop with hal…
by lowbloodsugar · Oct 31, 2026
Indeed, that's what I also thought this would be about; What a bummer. Someone should post that article instead, lol. I'd love to discuss why I am able to comprehend and read a…
by prmph · Oct 31, 2026
Interest
Proportion of Hacker News items mentioning "language" over time.
Mentions
Total number of Hacker News items mentioning "language" over time.
Language is a structured system of communication that consists of grammar and vocabulary. It is the primary means by which humans convey meaning, both in spoken and signed forms, and may also be conveyed through writing. Human language is characterized by its cultural and historical diversity, with significant variations observed between cultures and across time. Human languages possess the properties of productivity and displacement, which enable the creation of an infinite number of sentences, and the ability to refer to objects, events, and ideas that are not immediately present in the discourse. The use of human language relies on social convention and is acquired through learning. Read more on Wikipedia