University of Toronto
The project centered on unraveling the intricate factors influencing the similarity in semantic changes observed among cognates across diverse languages. This focus emerged from the recognition that languages exist in dynamic relationships, challenging the notion of isolation and necessitating an understanding of the multifaceted processes shaping their development.
To address this challenge, I undertook a diachronic examination, employing heatmaps and Pearson correlation coefficients for visualization and quantification. The primary methodology involved scrutinizing the semantic distance between cognates in different languages over time. The major hurdle lay in isolating and identifying the key drivers of linguistic evolution, especially regarding the causation of semantic shifts within cognate words. A nuanced approach to data analysis was imperative, considering both temporal and geographical dimensions.
The outcomes, as illustrated in Figure 1, revealed a noteworthy correlation between cosine distances, emphasizing the similarity in semantic changes among cognates over adjacent time periods. The analysis extended to the impact of geographical proximity on language dynamics, with a detailed examination of language pairs within the same country, such as China, the USA, Finland, Indonesia, and the UK. This exploration uncovered compelling trends in cognate counts, challenging preconceived notions about the role of geographic closeness in linguistic similarities.
In essence, this project significantly contributes to our understanding of language evolution. By challenging assumptions about causation in semantic shifts and revealing the multifaceted nature of linguistic dynamics, it emphasizes the need for a more nuanced exploration of the specific mechanisms driving semantic change. The research not only expands comprehension of language evolution but also sets the stage for future studies, proposing a more rigorous investigation with control groups to unveil the mysterious causes behind the observed phenomenon. This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the interdependencies of languages, enhancing our understanding of linguistic behavior and contributing to the broader field of language evolution research.