A "langue" is a structured system of communication used by a specific group of people. It encompasses the rules, vocabulary, and grammar that allow individuals to convey thoughts and ideas. Each langue can vary significantly, reflecting the culture and history of its speakers. In linguistics, the term "langue" is often contrasted with "parole," which refers to the actual use of language in speech. The concept was popularized by the linguist Ferdinand de Saussure, who emphasized the importance of understanding the underlying system of a langue to analyze how language functions in society.