proto-languages

Proto-languages are hypothetical, reconstructed forms of ancient languages that linguists believe existed before the development of the languages we know today. They are identified by comparing similarities across related languages, allowing experts to trace back common roots and features. For example, Proto-Indo-European is the common ancestor of many European and Indian languages. These reconstructed languages are not directly recorded but are inferred through careful analysis of vocabulary, grammar, and sound changes among descendant languages. Proto-languages help us understand how languages evolve and how different language families are connected historically.