Which of the following is/are involved in the comparative method for establishing language families and genetic relationship among languages?
Show Hint
- Reconstruction of the proto language
- Assembling a list of cognates
- Strictly using basic vocabulary lists
- Setting up sound correspondences
The Correct Option is A, B, D
Solution and Explanation
The comparative method is used in historical linguistics to establish genetic relationships between languages by comparing them and reconstructing the ancestral language (the proto-language).
Step 1: Analyze each option.
- (A) Reconstruction of the proto language is a central part of the comparative method. Linguists reconstruct the features of the proto-language by comparing descendant languages.
- (B) Assembling a list of cognates is essential in the comparative method. Cognates are words in different languages that have a common origin, and they help establish relationships between languages.
- (C) Strictly using basic vocabulary lists is not the most reliable method by itself. While basic vocabulary can be used, the focus is more on systematic sound correspondences rather than just vocabulary.
- (D) Setting up sound correspondences is crucial for the comparative method. By comparing systematic sound changes across languages, linguists can establish relationships and reconstruct the proto-language.
\[
\boxed{\text{Correct answers: (A), (B), and (D).}}
\]
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