Research has shown that producers and consumers of television programs are still uncertain about the nature of the "grammar" or "lexicon" that makes up the language of television. Although attempts have been made in experimental television ("video art"), systematic studies on the idiosyncratic nature, unique features, and specific components of the medium as a separate art form are still scarce. A review of these idiosyncracies, features, and components leads to the conclusion that the delay in the development of a television language can be attributed mainly to the lack of understanding of the medium's ultimate role, its unique characteristics, and its specific elements by those involved with television production and study. The development of television's language depends greatly on wider experimentation and research that acknowledges research already done in other disciplines. (Author/FL)