Brain Processes Constructed Languages Similarly to Natural Ones, Study Finds

Brain Response

to Constructed Languages Researchers investigated whether the brain treats constructed languages, known as conlangs, the same as natural languages that evolved over generations among groups of people.

A cognitive neuroscientist noted that brain regions processing language are highly connected and focus specifically on language, excluding other forms like math or computer code.

Study Methodology and Results

The research team recruited 10 speakers of Klingon, eight of Na’vi, three of High Valyrian, and three of Dothraki.

Brain scans revealed that participants' language centers activated when listening to recordings of the conlang they knew, but these regions showed less activity during nonlanguage mental exercises. The team reported these findings in March 2025 in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

Characteristics Defining Languages

The study suggests that factors like a language being recently invented by one person do not affect how the brain processes it.

Instead, the ability to express a wide range of inner and outer experiences appears to distinguish languages from other systems like math or programming.

Broader Context of Conlanging Conlangs

created for films, books, and TV shows represent a small portion of invented languages.

People have developed conlangs for centuries for purposes such as journaling, art, and international communication. Some conlangs use gestures, musical notes, or knots, including one designed for imaginary creatures with 49 tentacles that form glyphlike images.

Tips for Creating Conlangs Enthusiasts

recommend studying various unrelated languages to understand different ways of conveying meaning.

Practice is key, starting with initial attempts and improving over time.