Language acquisition is the process by which humans learn to communicate using language. This begins in infancy, as babies listen to the sounds around them and gradually start to mimic those sounds. Through interaction with caregivers and others, children learn the rules of grammar, expand their vocabulary, and develop the ability to express their thoughts and feelings. There are two main types of language acquisition: first language acquisition, which occurs naturally as children grow up in a language-rich environment, and second language acquisition, which happens when someone learns a new language later in life. Both processes involve understanding and using syntax, phonetics, and semantics to communicate effectively.