Explain the difference between synchronic and diachronic linguistics, and how each approach contributes to our understanding of language.

Synchronic linguistics examines language at a specific point in time, focusing on its structure and usage within a community. Diachronic linguistics, on the other hand, studies language change over time, tracing historical developments and evolutionary trends. Synchronic analysis helps understand contemporary language systems, while diachronic analysis reveals patterns of change, origins of linguistic features, and relationships between languages.