Linguistics - Universals

English: ‘those three big oranges’ (Dem-Num-Adj-N). Thai: ‘oranges big three those’ (N-Adj-Num-Dem)

8 out of 24 possible orders match conceptual structure (Dem > Num > Adj > N). These orders are more common cross-linguistically

Train participants on alien language with one modifier (e.g., ‘puku hono’ = feather that, ‘puku taka’ = feather red). Test: combine two modifiers. Result: prefer hierarchy-following order ‘puku taka hono’ (N-Adj-Dem) over other orders

Gesture ‘four spotty squares’ without language. Participants prefer hierarchy-following order (Dem-Num-Adj-N) even in gesture, showing it’s not just about language

Children (less language experience) also show hierarchy-following preference, suggesting cognitive bias rather than learned language pattern

This structure (Dem > Num > Adj > N) is innate, part of human language faculty. Children don’t have to learn it

Universal conceptual structure reflects structure of the world (properties tied to objects more than numerosity) + bias for simplicity. Languages shaped over time by cognitive biases Structure narrowing field of view

(1) Silent gesture (different modality), (2) Children (less experience), (3) Speakers of non-hierarchy-following languages like Kiitaraka