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Which proposed links between Hmong-Mien and other language families have not gained broad acceptance?

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While some scholars have proposed various connections for the Hmong-Mien languages, none of these theories have achieved broad acceptance among linguists. The family is currently considered an independent linguistic group.1

Proposed links that lack general consensus include:

  • Sino-Tibetan: Many Chinese scholars have historically classified Hmong-Mien within the Sino-Tibetan family. However, linguists outside of China generally reject this, noting that similarities in grammar and phonology are likely the result of long-term Chinese influence and bilingualism rather than a shared genetic origin.1
  • Mon-Khmer: A hypothesis suggesting a link between Hmong-Mien and Mon-Khmer was proposed by Henry R. Davies in 1909 and later elaborated upon by R.A.D. Forrest in 1948.1
  • Austro-Tai: In 1975, linguist Paul K. Benedict proposed grouping Hmong-Mien with Austronesian and Tai-Kadai languages.1
  • Austric: Hmong-Mien has also been suggested as a potential member of the broader Austric hypothesis, which originally linked Austroasiatic and Austronesian languages.1