Why do we always ask animals and babies what they’re doing, even though we know they can’t respond?
A large proportion of our language is either in tone of voice or body language, for the most part this is subconscious so when we ask babies and animals how they are doing it is also expressed in our tone of voice and body language. Whilst babies and animals can't fully comprehend what is being s…
The Short Answer
A large proportion of our language is either in tone of voice or body language, for the most part this is subconscious so when we ask babies and animals how they are doing it is also expressed in our tone of voice and body language. Whilst babies and animals can't fully comprehend what is being said to them what they can interpret is "I am friendly, not a threat and I am interested in you." As a result they can respond in a positive manner. Additionally the more babies are exposed to language the quicker the understand it and they understand it far quicker than they are able to express it in their own communication.
Analysis
Key Concepts: Language, babies, tone
This explanation focuses on language, babies, tone and spans 115 words across 3 sentences. At 69% above the average Animals explanation (68 words), this is one of the more thorough answers in this category, reflecting the complexity of the underlying question.
What This Answer Covers
The explanation opens with: “A large proportion of our language is either in tone of voice or body language, for the most part this is subconscious s” It then elaboratesultimately building toward a complete picture across 3 connected points.
How This Compares in Animals
Ranked #73 of 500 Animals questions by answer depth (top 15%). This places it in the comprehensive tier — the top quarter of most thoroughly answered questions. Questions at this depth typically involve multi-faceted topics requiring nuanced explanation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a simple explanation for why we always ask animals and babies what they're doing, even though we know they can't respond?
A large proportion of our language is either in tone of voice or body language, for the most part this is subconscious so when we ask babies and animals how they are doing it is also expressed in our tone of voice and body language. Whilst babies…
How detailed is this explanation compared to similar Animals questions?
This is one of the most thorough answer at 115 words, ranked #73 of 500 Animals questions by depth. The key concepts covered are language, babies, tone.
What approach does this answer take to explain we always ask animals and babies what they're doing, even th?
The explanation uses direct explanation across 115 words. It is categorized under Animals and addresses the question through 1 analytical lens.