Language society and culture

  1. “Some tribes perceive the world differently from other tribes because their languages lead them to see the world from different angles." This claim is commonly known as ...........
    Answer: d. Sapir-Whorf’s hypothesis
    Analysis: This hypothesis posits that the structure of a language influences its speakers' worldview and cognition, suggesting that language shapes how individuals perceive reality.
  1. Compare the following sentences, “How big is that pencil? How small is that pencil?” ..........
    Answer: c. 1 is marked but 2 is unmarked
    Analysis: The term "marked" refers to the presence of a specific feature that distinguishes it from the unmarked form. In this case, "small" introduces a comparative or differential aspect, making it marked.
  1. The main belief held by Sapir-Whorf's linguistic relativity hypothesis is that ...........
    Answer: d. the way people view the world is determined by the structure of their native language
    Analysis: This belief implies that language is not just a communication tool but also shapes thought processes and cultural perceptions.
  1. The part of linguistics which deals with sociology of language is called ..........
    Answer: b. macrolinguistics
    Analysis: Macrolinguistics looks at language in its social context, considering how societal factors influence language use and structure.
  1. The speech of every particular individual speaker of a language is referred to as ..........
    Answer: c. idiolect
    Analysis: An idiolect is the unique speech pattern of an individual, encompassing their vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
  1. A variety of a language which grew for such practical purposes as trading among people who did not speak the same language is called ..........
    Answer: d. pidgin
    Analysis: Pidgin languages emerge as simplified means of communication between speakers of different native languages, primarily for trade and basic interaction.
  1. The chief rationale behind topological linguistics is to find out about ..........
    Answer: d. the common features formed in all the languages of the world
    Analysis: Topological linguistics seeks to identify universal features and patterns across languages, despite their surface differences.
  1. A common language that can be used by members of a community who do not share a native language in common is referred to as their ..........
    Answer: d. lingua franca
    Analysis: A lingua franca facilitates communication between speakers of different native languages, often serving as a bridge language.
  1. Languages belonging to the same family are divergent variants, descendants, of a common ancestral language or .......... language.
    Answer: c. proto
    Analysis: Proto-languages are hypothesized ancestral languages from which current languages in a family have evolved.
  1. A(n) .......... situation exists in a society when it has two distinct codes which show clear functional separation.
    Answer: c. diglossic
    Analysis: Diglossia refers to a sociolinguistic situation where two varieties of a language are used in different social contexts and situations.
  1. ··········· refers only to distinctive pronunciation, whereas ………. refers to grammar and vocabulary as well.
    Answer: a. Accent - dialect
    Analysis: Accent pertains specifically to pronunciation features, while dialect encompasses pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammatical differences.
  1. In communication, the distance people stand from each other, and the way they hold their bodies when interacting, are important facets of ……….
    Answer: d. proxemic behavior
    Analysis: Proxemics studies how spatial distance affects communication and social interaction, reflecting cultural norms and personal boundaries.
  1. A system of communication which has grown up among people who do not share a common language, but who want to talk to each other, for trading or other reasons is called ·········.
    Answer: b. pidgin
    Analysis: Pidgin languages develop under conditions where speakers of different languages need a means of communication for practical purposes, often lacking a rich vocabulary or grammar.
  1. In Arabic, there are two styles of spoken language: a high variation ('al-fusha) and a lower one ('al-ammiyyah). Thus, this language is a good example for ……….
    Answer: b. diglossia
    Analysis: The coexistence of high and low varieties in Arabic illustrates diglossia, where different forms of the same language serve distinct social functions.
  1. If we hear one person say 'He done it,' and another say 'He did it,’ we would refer to them as using different ·········.
    Answer: c. dialects
    Analysis: Dialects represent variations in language usage, encompassing differences in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation across regions or social groups.
  1. In areas where divergent languages are spoken, the language used for social and commercial communication is called ·········.
    Answer: d. lingua franca
    Analysis: Lingua franca is utilized in multilingual contexts to facilitate communication in trade, diplomacy, and social interaction.
  1. The speech of an individual person is called a/n ·········.
    Answer: b. idiolect
    Analysis: An idiolect encapsulates the unique linguistic characteristics of an individual, reflecting their personal language use.
  1. The use of two distinct varieties of a language with separate social functions is called ·········.
    Answer: a. diglossia
    Analysis: Diglossia involves the presence of two varieties of the same language, each serving unique roles in society, such as formal and informal contexts.
  1. The function of language used to serve social maintenance is known as the.......... function.
    Answer: c. interactional
    Analysis: The interactional function emphasizes language's role in fostering social relationships and maintaining communication in social contexts.
  1. The Standard variety is developed for use in all aspects of social life in the .......... process of language planning.
    Answer: c. standardization
    Analysis: Standardization involves establishing a consistent form of a language for formal use across various domains in society.
  1. As far as diglossia is concerned, it is NOT true that .......... .
    Answer: b. all varieties have an overlapping range of functions
    Analysis: In diglossia, high and low varieties often have distinct, non-overlapping ranges of functions rather than shared functions.
  1. The term .......... refers to the predispositions individuals have for using their intellect in specific ways to learn the second or foreign language.
    Answer: b. cognitive style
    Analysis: Cognitive style pertains to the preferred ways an individual processes information, influencing their approach to language learning.
  1. The term .......... refers to the second-language learner’s social and psychological integration with speakers of the second language.
    Answer: a. acculturation
    Analysis: Acculturation describes the process by which learners adapt to and integrate into a new linguistic and cultural community.
  1. According to ....... language imposes on its speakers a particular world view.
    Answer: d. Sapir - Whorf hypothesis
    Analysis: This hypothesis asserts that the language one speaks influences cognitive patterns and cultural perceptions of reality.
  1. When two different varieties of language co-exist in a speech community, each with a distinct range of social function, the situation is referred to as ............
    Answer: b. diglossia
    Analysis: This reflects the coexistence of two language varieties serving different social roles within the same community.
  1. A hypothetical boundary line which separates two geographical variations of the same meaning technically is called ..........
    Answer: c. isogloss
    Analysis: Isoglosses demarcate areas where different linguistic features occur, often indicating regional language variations.
  1. When two very different varieties of a language co-exist in a speech community, it is called ........ .
    Answer: b. bidialectalism
    Analysis: Bidialectalism refers to the use of two dialects within a community, often reflecting social or regional distinctions.
  1. First language learning is an aspect of ………. Becoming a member of one’s cultural group; very normal human being becomes a member of some culture, of which its language is an integral part and perhaps the richest expression.
    Answer: a. enculturation
    Analysis: Enculturation describes the process of acquiring cultural norms and practices, including language, as individuals grow within their communities.
  1. What is the technical term for the following definition: 'It is the social function of language used to rapport between people or establish a pleasant atmosphere.'
    Answer: d. phatic communion
    Analysis: Phatic communion refers to language that serves a social function rather than conveying information, focusing on interpersonal connection.
  1. The term .......... is used for the personal dialect of each individual speaker of a language.
    Answer: c. idiolect
    Analysis: Idiolect captures the unique language use of individuals, encompassing their personal speech characteristics.
  1. According to the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, the way people view the world is determined by ...........
    Answer: a. the structure of their native language
    Analysis: This indicates that linguistic structures influence cognitive frameworks and perceptions of reality.
  1. The term .......... is used to describe a situation in which two very different varieties of language co-exist in a speech community, each with a distinct range of social functions.
    Answer: a. diglossia
    Analysis: Diglossia outlines the interaction of high and low language varieties, where each fulfills different societal roles.
  1. When a Pidgin develops beyond its role as a trade language and becomes the first language of a social community, it is described as a ...........
    Answer: b. Creole
    Analysis: Creoles emerge when a pidgin language becomes nativized, acquiring complexity and stability as a community's primary language.
  1. The term .......... describes features of grammar and vocabulary, as well as aspects of pronunciation.
    Answer: a. dialect
    Analysis: Dialect encompasses variations in grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation that characterize particular language groups.
  1. The process whereby language is passed on from one generation to the next is described as ...........
    Answer: b. cultural transmission
    Analysis: Cultural transmission refers to the way languages and cultural practices are learned and perpetuated across generations.

  1. The term .......... is used for the personal dialect of each individual speaker of a language.
    Answer: a. idiolect
    Analysis: An idiolect is the unique speech pattern of an individual, reflecting their personal language use, including vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.
  1. Linguistic determinism in its strongest version holds that ...........
    Answer: d. language determines thought
    Analysis: This view suggests that the structure and vocabulary of a language can significantly influence or even limit the way its speakers think and perceive the world.
  1. The process by which language is passed on from one generation to the next is described as ...........
    Answer: a. cultural transmission
    Analysis: Cultural transmission refers to the methods through which language and culture are learned and conveyed from one generation to another within a community.
  1. One dialect is called standard ...........
    Answer: b. through accidents of history and politics
    Analysis: Standard dialects often emerge due to historical events, political influence, and social factors rather than any intrinsic superiority in linguistic complexity.
  1. The line representing a boundary between the areas with regard to particular linguistic items is called a(n) ...........
    Answer: c. isogloss
    Analysis: An isogloss is a geographic boundary that separates regions based on specific linguistic features or variations.
  1. Variations in language according to use in specific situations are described as ...........
    Answer: c. register
    Analysis: Register refers to the variations in language use depending on context, purpose, and audience, encompassing different levels of formality and style.
  1. The situation in which dialect differences disappear as a result of intercommunication is referred to as ...........
    Answer: d. dialect leveling
    Analysis: Dialect leveling occurs when distinct dialects converge due to increased interaction, often leading to reduced differences in pronunciation and grammar.
  1. The varieties of language usage associated with different situations are commonly called ...........
    Answer: a. styles
    Analysis: Styles refer to the different ways language can be used in various contexts, reflecting the speaker's intent, audience, and situational dynamics.
  1. Unlike pidgins, Creole languages are characterized by ...........
    Answer: a. having large number of native speakers
    Analysis: Creole languages evolve from pidgins and become fully developed languages with native speakers, incorporating complex grammatical structures and a rich vocabulary.
  1. In the course of language planning, .......... refers to a process in which basic grammars, dictionaries, and written models are used to establish the standard variety.
    Answer: b. codification
    Analysis: Codification is the process of formalizing a language's standard form through the establishment of rules, norms, and reference materials.
  1. Pidgin languages are NOT characterized by ...........
    Answer: a. extensive use of inflectional morphemes
    Analysis: Pidgin languages typically have simplified structures, including a limited use of inflectional morphemes, focusing on basic communication needs.
  1. The varieties of language usage associated with different situations are commonly called ...........
    Answer: a. styles
    Analysis: Styles reflect the different ways language is employed based on context, purpose, and audience, similar to the previous question.
  1. A variety of a language which develops for some practical purpose, such as trading among groups of people who do not know each other's language is called a ...........
    Answer: b. pidgin
    Analysis: Pidgin languages arise in contact situations where speakers of different languages need to communicate for trade or other functional purposes, often lacking full grammatical structures.
  1. We can classify Gilaki as a(n).......... and Isfahani as a(n) ...........
    Answer: d. language/dialect
    Analysis: Gilaki is considered a distinct language, while Isfahani is an example of a dialect within a larger linguistic framework.
  1. According to Sapir-Whorf hypothesis ...........
    Answer: b. the speaker's world view is determined by his language
    Analysis: This hypothesis suggests that the language one speaks shapes their worldview and influences how they interpret experiences and concepts.
  1. The feeling of not belonging to any culture is called ...........
    Answer: a. anomie
    Analysis: Anomie refers to a state of normlessness or disconnection from social or cultural norms, often leading to feelings of alienation.
  1. Which of the following is NOT true?
    Answer: d. When a Creole develops beyond its role as a trade language and becomes the first language of a social community, it is described as pidgin.
    Analysis: This statement is incorrect because a Creole is the end product of a pidgin that has become nativized and adopted as a first language.
  1. The conclusion drawn from .......... is that "We dissect nature along lines laid down by our native tongues."
    Answer: b. Sapir-Whorf hypothesis
    Analysis: This conclusion reflects the idea that the structure of language influences cognitive categorization and interpretation of the world.
  1. The way an individual uses the language of the community is called ...........
    Answer: b. idiolect
    Analysis: An idiolect represents the unique language usage of an individual, reflecting their personal experiences and speech patterns.
  1. Language such as small talk used to establish and maintain relationships rather than to communicate ideas is called ...........
    Answer: a. phatic communion
    Analysis: Phatic communion refers to conversational exchanges that focus on social connections rather than information exchange, often seen in casual interactions.
  1. A limited language which is usually developed for commercial contact between two groups of speakers of different languages is called .........., but if it later becomes the mother tongue of a community and expands to fill all language needs, it is referred to as ...........
    Answer: d. pidgin/Creole
    Analysis: Pidgin is a simplified language for communication between different language speakers, while a Creole develops from a pidgin to become a fully functional mother tongue.
  1. Based on linguistic studies, it has been found that there is .......... relationship between language and race.
    Answer: d. no
    Analysis: Research indicates that there is no direct correlation between language and race, as language is influenced by a variety of social, cultural, and historical factors.
  1. “People in different language groups view the world in a different manner because their language causes them to see the world from a different perspective and to interpret it in ways consistent with their language. This is called ...........
    Answer: b. linguistic relativity
    Analysis: Linguistic relativity posits that language influences thought and perception, leading to different interpretations of experiences based on linguistic background.
  1. A common medium of communication that enables people of different languages to communicate is called ...........
    Answer: c. lingua franca
    Analysis: A lingua franca serves as a bridge language for speakers of different native languages, facilitating communication across linguistic barriers.
  1. Forms such as "um" and "ers," significant pauses, "uhuh" are included in ...........
    Answer: c. para-language
    Analysis: Para-language encompasses non-verbal elements of communication, such as fillers and vocal effects that accompany spoken language but do not have intrinsic meaning.
  1. In English with regard to sex, the words, "mare" and "stallion" are both .......... forms and "horse" is ...........
    Answer: b. marked/unmarked
    Analysis: "Mare" and "stallion" are marked terms, specifying gender, while "horse" is unmarked, referring to the general category without gender specification.
  1. "I can't do without you." This sentence is a(n) ...........
    Answer: a. idiom
    Analysis: This expression conveys a figurative meaning that differs from its literal interpretation, typical of idiomatic phrases.
  1. According to which of the following do we claim that "we dissect nature along lines laid down by our native tongue”?
    Answer: c. Sapir-Whorf hypothesis
    Analysis: This statement reflects the Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, emphasizing the influence of language on thought and perception.
  1. When two languages or language varieties exist side by side in a community and each one is used for different purposes, it is referred to as ...........
    Answer: d. diglossia
    Analysis: Diglossia describes a situation where two distinct varieties of a language coexist in a community, each serving different social functions.
  1. Which academic issue can be clarified by understanding Maslow's Needs Theory?
    Answer: c. The effect of poverty on academic achievement
    Analysis: Maslow's theory highlights how unmet basic needs can impact a student's capacity to succeed academically, linking psychological well-being to educational outcomes.
  1. In setting up a behavior-modification program, a teacher observes Briana for three 1-hour sessions. The teacher randomly chooses another student in the class as a control. During this time, the teacher tallies the number of times Briana and the control student leave their seats during each hour period. The teacher is recording baseline data using a ..........
    Answer: c. frequency count
    Analysis: A frequency count records the number of occurrences of a specific behavior within a defined observation period, serving as baseline data for behavior analysis.