* Languages constantly evolve: Languages are always changing, with new words, grammar, and pronunciations emerging over time.
* New languages arise from existing ones: Most new languages develop from existing languages through processes like:
* Dialects diverging: When groups of people speaking the same language become isolated, their dialects can evolve into distinct languages.
* Pidgins and creoles: Pidgins are simplified languages that develop when speakers of different languages need to communicate. Creoles are pidgins that have become more complex and are used as native languages.
Examples of relatively new languages:
* Tok Pisin: This language, spoken in Papua New Guinea, developed in the early 20th century from a pidgin based on English.
* Sranan Tongo: Spoken in Suriname, this creole language developed from a pidgin based on English and Portuguese.
* Hebrew: Though ancient, Hebrew went through a revival process in the late 19th century and is now a modern language spoken in Israel.
It's important to remember:
* Age doesn't determine value: All languages are equally valid and important, regardless of their age.
* Languages are constantly changing: What we consider a "young" language today may evolve significantly in the future.
Let me know if you have other questions about language!