drawing is the language of engineers

drawing is the language of engineers

Engineering drawings are a universal language

because they are understood the world over, and used to convey information from one person to another like writing or speaking.

The difference is that they convey information in a standard engineering drawing format.

Dimensions
Dimensions are numerical and are the same the world over. 
Universal geometric dimensioning and tolerancing symbols convey additional dimensioning information.

Finish Symbols
The finish symbols that indicate the surface texture of the part are also international. They are understood regardless of language.

Orthographic projection
An opportunity for miscommunication reading a drawing is the difference between first and third angle projection. That is the presentation of the drawing views. The United States uses third angle and Europe uses first angle projection. An icon in the drawing title block identifies which projection is used.

Text
An opportunity for misunderstanding an engineering drawing is text in a foreign language used for additional explanation. The solution is a dictionary. If the drafter knows that the drawing is going to a foreign country, s/he gives special attention to using symbols to minimize the text.

Engineering Drawing
Engineers of all countries have used the engineering drawing to convey information to each other since the 19th century. Reference material has been compiled and published so that anyone can access it to clear up any misunderstanding that may occur.

Source:
Australian Association for Engineering Education: Engineering Drawing as a Global Language for Engineers