The Proto-language reference article from the English Wikipedia on 24-Jul-2004 (provided by Fixed Reference: snapshots of Wikipedia from wikipedia.org)

Proto-language

A language that reflects an earlier state in a language family. The emphasis is that it is reconstructed by comparing different members of the language family for which records are available. Examples are Proto-Indo-European and Proto-Bantu. See also: Proto-World Language

As defined by linguist Derek Bickerton, a primitive form of communication lacking syntax, tense, and non-lexical vocabulary. The 'me Tarzan, you Jane' nature of proto-language is evident pidgins, some feature of early childhood language, and the language of adults deprived of language during the critical period (see Genie). Bickerton suggests language evolved from proto-language in a linguistic 'big bang.'

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