PegiatJurnal.com: LIST JURNAL PENGABDIAN MASYARAKAT SINTA 3-5
The Origin of Language – Classic Theories
1. Ding-Dong Theory
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Core Idea: Language arose because certain sounds were naturally connected to the essence of objects, actions, or feelings.
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Proponent: Max Müller (19th-century philologist).
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Examples:
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The word clang resembles the metallic ringing sound.
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Boom mirrors thunder or an explosion.
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Cuckoo named after the bird because its call resembles its name.
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In some languages, the sound /a/ is linked with openness (as in “ah”), while /i/ may suggest smallness or sharpness (as in “tiny”).
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Strengths: Explains sound symbolism (like gl- in English words “glow, glitter, gleam” suggesting light).
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Weaknesses:
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Cannot explain abstract words (justice, love, freedom).
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Relies heavily on intuition rather than scientific proof.
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Sound-meaning links vary across cultures and languages.
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2. Yo-He-Ho Theory
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Core Idea: Language developed from communal labor chants where rhythm and vocalization helped coordinate group effort.
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Context: Early humans working together in farming, hunting, or building may have synchronized movement with sounds.
Introduction to Linguistics by H. Moch. Imam machfudi, SS, M.Pd.,Ph.D
UIN Kiai Haji Achmad Siddiq Jember
DOI: https://doi.org/10.35719/ukp.2
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