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GRE
GRE Verbal Reasoning Section

The Impact of Migration on Language Evolution

Very Hard Reading Comprehension Passage-based Questions

The evolution of language has long fascinated linguists, who often explore how social dynamics influence linguistic change. In recent studies, researchers have emphasized the role of migration not only in the spread of languages but also in their transformation. For example, when populations relocate, they bring their linguistic structures with them, which can lead to the blending of dialects. This phenomenon is particularly observable in urban environments where diverse populations coexist. In such contexts, a creole or pidgin may emerge, reflecting a unique fusion of elements from multiple languages.

This process, however, is not merely about vocabulary changes; it also encompasses shifts in syntax, phonetics, and even the social meanings attached to certain words and phrases. Linguists argue that such transformations are indicative of deeper societal changes—reflecting issues of identity, power, and community. In the context of globalization, the interaction between dominant and minority languages can yield not only new languages but also renewed perspectives on cultural identity.

Thus, language is not static but a living entity, shaped continually by its speakers’ experiences, interactions, and the sociopolitical landscape.

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