When attempting reconstruction of a proto-language's phonology via the comparative method, what undermines the accuracy of reconstructed consonant inventories?

💡 Explanation

Independent parallel developments, where similar sound changes occur in related languages independently, can lead to the incorrect assumption of a shared ancestor sound via parallel development, rather than inheritance, because these can create ‘false cognates’. Therefore, option D is correct; rather than options A, B, or C, which represent less impactful aspects of reconstruction.

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