Linguistic Relativity in Cross-Cultural Communication: A Critical Review of Theoretical and Empirical Insights

Abstract

As the following paper seeks to give a critical analysis of linguistic relativity, this is a concept that has pivotal importance with regard to intercultural interaction. It discusses the Sapir‐Whorf Hypothesis according to which language shape the thought of people and consider how the theory can be transformed in modern readings and appraisals. This paper aims at providing a review of various empirical studies that either affirm or reject the concept of relativity of language, with emphasis being placed on how language influences perception, cognition and behavior in line with the cultural requirements. The paper also explores the contribution of cognitive linguistics in analyzing the way language determines the perception of culture, conduct and ethics in language use specifically in the day-to-day interactions. In addition, the study analyzes the consequences of linguistic relativity in relation to language barriers in multicultural global communication processes as well as the ways in which language can hinder or enhance multicultural communication by providing the interlocutors with a different way of perceiving reality. Finally, the conclusion section of the paper includes the analysis of the necessity of paying attention to the language and cultural differences in order to increase the effectiveness of intercultural communications in the contemporary globalized world.