How Words Get Stuck on the Tip of Your Tongue

The video explores the tip-of-the-tongue (TOT) phenomenon, where a person struggles to recall a word they are sure they know. This common occurrence increases with age and is universal across languages. Researchers use connectionist models to simulate how neurons process language, explaining how learning and memory retrieval work. The resolution effect suggests that finding a word independently strengthens memory pathways, while hints can aid in resolving TOT states.

What is the term used to describe the phenomenon where a word is almost recalled but not fully retrieved?

• Jamais vu

• Vécu

• Déjà vu

• Presque vu

What do connectionist models simulate in the context of language processing?

• The behavior of animals

• The flow of water in rivers

• The structure of DNA

• The functioning of neurons in the brain

According to the connectionist model, what happens when certain clusters of neurons are activated repeatedly?

• The clusters disappear

• The connections between them strengthen

• The connections between them weaken

• The clusters become less active

What is the resolution effect in the context of TOT states?

• The strengthening of neural pathways when a word is self-retrieved

• The weakening of memory over time

• The ability to recall words with external help

• The tendency to forget words more easily

What is a suggested method to help someone in a TOT state?

• Giving them a hint related to the word

• Asking them to think harder

• Ignoring their request for help

• Telling them the word directly