Semantic combinations in primate calls
Open Access
- 17 May 2006
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Springer Science and Business Media LLC in Nature
- Vol. 441 (7091), 303
- https://doi.org/10.1038/441303a
Abstract
Syntax sets human language apart from other natural communication systems, although its evolutionary origins are obscure1. Here we show that free-ranging putty-nosed monkeys combine two vocalizations into different call sequences that are linked to specific external events, such as the presence of a predator and the imminent movement of the group. Our findings indicate that non-human primates can combine calls into higher-order sequences that have a particular meaning.Keywords
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