Receptive and Expressive Language 

According to ASHA (Receptive and Expressive Language) 

• Receptive language is the 'input' of language. It is the ability to understand and comprehend information that is communicated in a variety of ways such as sounds, words and sentences, body language and gestures, signs and symbols. 

• Expressive language is the 'output' of language. It involves the ability to express wants, needs, thoughts, and ideas to engage and interact with others.