Neural classics of linguistic competence
Published: 23.10.2025
If you would like to learn more about how our language processing works and what happens in our brain during this process, you can find further information in the article ▸ From Sound to Word.
Broca's area
An area of the prefrontal cortex (cerebral Cortex) that is usually located in the left Hemisphere. Plays a key role in the motor production of speech. First described by French neurologist Paul Pierre Broca in 1861.
prefrontal cortex
Prefrontal cortex
The prefrontal cortex (PFC) forms the front part of the frontal lobe and is one of the brain's most important integration and control centers. It receives highly processed information from many other areas of the cortex and is responsible for planning, controlling, and flexibly adapting one's own behavior. Its central tasks include executive functions, working memory, emotion regulation, and decision-making. In addition, the PFC plays an important role in the cognitive evaluation and modulation of pain.
Cortex
cortex cerebri
Cortex refers to a collection of neurons, typically in the form of a thin surface. However, it usually refers to the cerebral cortex, the outermost layer of the cerebrum. It is 2.5 mm to 5 mm thick and rich in nerve cells. The cerebral cortex is heavily folded, comparable to a handkerchief in a cup. This creates numerous convolutions (gyri), fissures (fissurae), and sulci. Unfolded, the surface area of the cortex is approximately 1,800cm².
Hemisphere
The cerebrum and cerebellum each consist of two halves – the right and left hemispheres. In the cerebrum, they are connected by three pathways (commissures). The largest commissure is the corpus callosum.
