Chapter 17: Differences and Similarities between Languages Flashcards
Typological similarities
When two languages select the same structural ‘options’.
Areal similarities
When languages are spoken in the same area and start displaying all kinds of similarities.
Sprachbund
An area where languages show similarities because of a history of shared contact.
Toponymics
The study of place names.
Comparative reconstruction
The procedure of creating a common form from which others could be derived.
Language family
Languages which genetic similarities are part of these.
Proto-form
A hypothetical linguistic form reconstructed as an element of a protolanguage.
Proto-language
The reconstructed ‘parent’ form of a language or group of languages.
Sound laws
Rules involving speech sounds.
Generic relationship
When two languages have a common ancestor.
