Language is not just a network,but a complex one.Owing to the lack of appropriate research methodology,the traditional network view of language is no more than a metaphorical comprehension.However,with the introduction of complex network theories,it is now plausible to conduct largescale empirical studies into language networks,which must be constructed upon solid foundations of linguistic theories.At the same time,complex network,instead of being treated as a metaphorical understanding of language,should be fully exploited as an efficient and effective approach in linguistic studies.The complex network properties not only reflect the stylistic and typological features of languages,but also provide valuable means to distinguish languages at various levels.While social network analysis can uncover the distinctive characteristics of language networks,complex network approaches can reveal the generality between linguistic system and other systems,social or natural.As a result,the integration of complex network approaches and social network analysis can contribute significantly to the quest for the underlying laws and properties of human language.