The Sapir-Whorf hypothesis, in its strong form, proposes that language determines thought—speakers of different languages literally think in fundamentally different ways. Most linguists reject this strong version while accepting weaker claims: language influences attention, memory, and habitual thought patterns. Russian speakers, who have separate words for light and dark blue, distinguish these shades faster than English speakers—though both can ultimately make the distinction.
The passage suggests that
all linguists reject any connection between language and thought
English speakers cannot perceive differences between blue shades
the strong Sapir-Whorf hypothesis is universally accepted
language may influence cognitive processes without fully determining them
Correct Answer: D
Choice D is the best answer. Language affects speed of distinction but both groups can make it.
- Context clues: Strong version (determination) rejected; weaker version (influence) accepted.
- Meaning: Language shapes but doesn't determine thought.
- Verify: Russian speakers distinguish faster, but English speakers "can ultimately make the distinction."
💡 Strategy: When effects exist but don't reach absolute determination, infer influence without determination.
Choice A is incorrect because linguists "accept weaker claims" of influence. Choice B is incorrect because English speakers can "ultimately make the distinction." Choice C is incorrect because most linguists "reject this strong version."