Question

The majority of words in a language cannot be explained by which of the following theories?

• A. The Ding-Dong Theory
• B. The Pooh-Pooh Theory
• C. The Bow-Wow Theory
• D. The Gesture Theory

Answer 1

Answer:

C. The Bow-Wow Theory

While the Bow-Wow Theory explains onomatopoeic words (words that imitate sounds), it cannot account for the vast majority of words in a language. Most words, especially abstract ones or those that don't have a clear connection to natural sounds, cannot be explained by this theory. Other theories, like the Ding-Dong or Gesture Theory, provide broader explanations for the development of language.