Exploring Universal Language Features

Across the globe, over 7,000 languages exhibit universal characteristics that connect humanity. Researchers identify similar sound patterns for emotions like pain and joy, alongside child words for parental figures.

Fascinating exceptions exist, such as the Rotokas language, which lacks the sound 'm'. The Bouba/Kiki effect highlights how people associate rounded shapes with soft sounds and angular shapes with harsh sounds.

Furthermore, the R/L effect illustrates the connection between sound and texture perception. Language likely originated from a single source at least 250,000 years ago, emphasizing the profound relationship between sound form and meaning.

While primates communicate through laughter and playful noises, only humans have developed complex spoken languages, showcasing the unique evolution of human expression.