Ferdinand de Saussure was a Swiss linguist whose work laid the foundational principles for modern linguistics. Born in the 19th century, he is best known for his theory of the linguistic sign, which consists of the signifier and the signified. His ideas emphasize that language is a system of signs that gain meaning through their relationships and differences from each other, rather than through a direct connection to external realities. Saussure's influential text, "Course in General Linguistics," published posthumously by his students, highlights the synchronic and diachronic approaches to studying language. The synchronic approach looks at language at a specific moment in time, while the diachronic approach examines how language evolves over time. His concepts have had a lasting impact across various disciplines, including semiotics and structuralism, transforming our understanding of language and its functions in society. Despite his significant contributions, Saussure's work remained largely unrecognized during his lifetime. His theories sparked debates and further exploration among linguists and philosophers in the 20th century, solidifying his position as a pivotal figure in the study of language. Today, his insights into the nature of signs and the structural relationships within languages continue to influence contemporary linguistic theory and practice. Ferdinand de Saussure, a key figure in linguistics, was born in 1857 in Switzerland. He pursued studies in various fields, including philosophy and philology, which shaped his views on language. Saussure's main contribution, "Course in General Linguistics," proposed groundbreaking ideas about the structure of language. He emphasized the concept of language as a system of signs, consisting of the signifier and the signified. His work laid the groundwork for modern linguistic theory and introduced distinctions between synchronic and diachronic analysis. Saussure's influence extends beyond linguistics, impacting fields like anthropology, literary theory, and philosophy.