To Investigate the Focal Vocabulary of a Language in a Particular

question 51

Multiple Choice

To investigate the focal vocabulary of a language in a particular community,a linguistic anthropologist might

• A) search for genetic evidence for the origin of syntax and grammar.
• B) try to discover words that offer sophisticated ways to describe local cultural realities.
• C) set up experiments that show how that community uses language differently.
• D) focus on the dialects that are present within the group.

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Definitions:

Trephination

Procedure in which holes were drilled in the skulls of people displaying abnormal behavior, presumably to allow evil spirits to depart their bodies; performed in the Stone Age.

Exorcism

A religious or spiritual ritual carried out to expel evil spirits or demons from a person or place believed to be possessed.

Atonement

The act of making amends or reparation for wrongdoing or guilt.

Cultural Relativism

The idea that a person's customs and practices should be interpreted by others based on the cultural context of that individual.