A new study examines the question of whether there are similarities between different languages in the words and sounds used to express pain. It analyzed expressions of pain, anger and happiness from more than 130 languages.
Similarities of exclamations of pain, anger and happiness
Different languages may have different words for pain, anger, and happiness, but there is an interesting similarity in the way these emotions are expressed. Researchers studied more than 500 exclamation words in 131 languages. Most of these words were found to have similar sounds, especially the words for pain. For example, vowels like ‘ouch’, ‘ai’, ‘a’, ‘ai’ and ‘au’ were often found in words expressing pain. The use of such sounds was seen in almost every region around the world.
Role of non-linguistic phonemes
The study also showed that the vocalizations of exclamatory words used to express pain are similar to nonverbal vocalizations (e.g. groaning, screaming). For example, when a person gets suddenly hurt, he makes sounds like ‘ahh’ or ‘uff’, which are direct reactions of the body. These sounds are meaningful in themselves and reflect the experience of pain.
Difference between expressions of anger and happiness
However, such similarities were not found in exclamations of anger and happiness. These words often have a variety of phonemes depending on culture, language, and social context. For example, words like ‘wow’ or ‘yahoo’ are used to express happiness, which can change according to personality and social context.
Amazing relationship between science and language
The results of this study show that the human body’s response to words and sounds that express emotions are closely related. This research also shows that there are some elements in language that are naturally linked to the physical and mental experiences of humans.
