ape language

Ape language refers to the attempt to teach non-human primates, like chimpanzees and gorillas, to communicate using symbols, signs, or modified human languages. Researchers have explored this to understand cognitive abilities and the capacity for language beyond humans. Notable examples include projects with Washoe the chimpanzee, who learned American Sign Language, and Koko the gorilla, who used sign language and could understand spoken words. While these apes demonstrated impressive communication skills, debates continue regarding the true complexity of their understanding and whether it meets the criteria for genuine language.