Understanding Language and Culture
Listen carefully to the following passage:
In our discussion today, we will explore the fascinating relationship between language and culture. Language is more than just a tool for communication; it embodies the values, beliefs, and norms of a society. For instance, certain languages contain specific terms that reflect cultural concepts that may not exist in other languages. This phenomenon highlights the close connection between language usage and cultural identity. Furthermore, linguistic diversity can also be seen as an indicator of cultural diversity. The disappearance of a language often correlates with the erosion of a culture. As we study various linguistic traditions, we will discover how language shapes thought processes, influences social behavior, and even impacts our perception of reality. A classic example is the distinction between the way genders are addressed in different languages. While some languages have gendered nouns, others do not, which can affect how speakers perceive gender roles within their respective cultures.
Note: This question has been adapted from its original format to accommodate a reading-based version. In the official TOEFL exam, speaking and listening sections require verbal responses and audio prompts, which are not represented here. Please note that this adaptation may not fully reflect the nature or difficulty of the official exam. The audio feature for these sections will be available soon.
Select all that apply: