Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy in Linguistic Research: Recent Advances and Future Perspectives

Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy (fNIRS), a non-invasive neuroimaging technique, has demonstrated unique advantages in linguistic research in recent years. By monitoring changes in the concentrations of oxygenated and deoxygenated hemoglobin during cortical activation, fNIRS provides new insights into the mechanisms underlying language processing. Its ecological validity and high compatibility enable seamless integration into real-world environments, minimizing interference and ensuring the authenticity of the collected data. In the realm of linguistics, fNIRS has been applied to studies on language perception, function, acquisition, cross-linguistic processing, and the assessment of language disorders, revealing the intricate mechanisms of language processing and showcasing its potential for clinical applications. This article reviews the latest advancements in the utilization of fNIRS in linguistic research, aiming to provide valuable references for researchers and to foster deeper exploration and innovative development in this field. Meanwhile, this article systematically examines the limitations of fNIRS in current research, provides a critical assessment of its methodological and applicative value, and, on this basis, outlines future directions and potential breakthroughs for this technology in the field of language research.