Some linguists have argued that the structure of a person's native language shapes how they perceive the world — a hypothesis known as linguistic relativity. Critics long dismissed this idea as untestable. However, a 2010 study found that speakers of languages with absolute spatial terms (like "north" and "south" rather than "left" and "right") demonstrated notably better navigation skills.
Which choice best describes the function of the third sentence in the text?
- A
It introduces a new hypothesis distinct from linguistic relativity.
- B
It restates the original hypothesis in different words.
- Ccheck_circle
It offers empirical evidence that supports the hypothesis presented earlier.
- D
It dismisses the linguistic relativity hypothesis as unproven.
Explanation
The 2010 study supports linguistic relativity by linking language to navigation ability. B is correct; the sentence answers the critics' challenge with evidence.