When languages are depicted as leaves on trees, the trunks of the trees represent
A) dialects.
B) language groups.
C) language families.
D) possible prehistoric superfamilies.
E) language sects.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The trunks of the trees in a language tree diagram represent language families, which are groups of languages that can be traced back to a common ancestor. These language families can then be broken down into smaller sub-groups, such as dialects or language groups. While there is evidence of possible prehistoric superfamilies, the trunks on a language tree diagram typically represent existing, well-established language families. Language sects are not typically depicted on language tree diagrams.

When Languages Are Depicted as Leaves on Trees, the Trunks