This paper is part of a current dissertation project exploring the relationships between constructs in linguistic theory and pattern of language behavior in aphasic adults. The author feels that linguists have done little enough work in the area of speech pathology yet they have discussed at length the distinction between competence and performance. He believes that the loss or the impairment of language abilities as concomitants of organic lesion in the central nervous system can, when judiciously examined, provide linguists with an insight into the structure of language. Discussed are some aphasic language data from two patients with whom the author has worked and also from some research done by speech pathologists at the Mayo Clinic. The author concludes by pointing out areas for further research. (DO)