How did the Lydian language change the sounds inside and at the ends of words?

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The Lydian language is distinguished from its closest Anatolian relatives by two primary phonological processes that significantly altered its appearance:

  • Syncope: This process involves the loss of sounds within the interior of words.1
  • Apocope: This process involves the loss of sounds at the ends of words.1

These linguistic shifts are considered a striking feature of Lydian, contributing to its superficially distinct character compared to related languages like Hittite and Luwian.1