Ethnolinguistics is the study of how language and culture influence each other. It examines the ways in which different ethnic groups use language to express their identities, beliefs, and social practices. By analyzing language in its cultural context, researchers can better understand how language shapes thought and social interactions. This field often explores topics such as language preservation, bilingualism, and the impact of colonialism on indigenous languages. Ethnolinguists may also investigate how language reflects cultural values and how changes in society affect language use over time.