言

• Verb: To speak, say, or utter.
• Noun (Singular): A word; a discrete unit of speech.
• Noun (Collective): Speech, words, or discourse.
• Noun (Conceptual): The manifestation of internal intent or truth into external form.

• Verbal: Functions as both a transitive verb (saying something) and an intransitive verb (the act of speaking).
• Nominal: Acts as subject or object; may occasionally function as a classifier for utterances.
• Quotative: In early texts, frequently serves as a formal marker signaling the beginning of direct speech.

• 言 vs. 說 (shuō): 言 typically denotes the direct act of utterance, whereas 說 often implies explaining, persuading, or unfolding an argument.
• 言 vs. 語 (yǔ): 言 tends toward the act of saying; 語 leans toward language, style, or sustained discourse.
• 言 vs. 辭 (cí): 言 is generally more spontaneous or direct; 辭 denotes formal rhetoric, stylized language, poetry, or official documentation.

• Semantic variant: U+8A01. No shift in meaning between the standard form and variants.

In lean syntax, there is a primary ambiguity between verbal use ("he spoke") and nominal use ("words [were heard]"). The translator should determine if the glyph functions as the primary action of the clause or as the subject/object being discussed.