Automatization in Processing a Classical Language: Effects of Time Pressure and Linear Presentation on Sentence Comprehension in Latin

Conversation requires rapid and efficient language processing, which in turn depends on a high degree of automatization. Yet, it remains unclear how such automatization develops in languages that are typically not used for spoken communication, such as Latin. In an online learning experiment, we examined how time pressure and strict linear reading influence sentence processing in Latin. Two groups of participants received identical training materials but differed in these two factors during the learning phase. The results showed that time pressure facilitated automatization in the retrieval and evaluation of linguistic cues (subject animacy and argument order), but it also made it more difficult to override automatized routines when processing semantically unacceptable sentences containing animacy violations. In addition, strict linear reading enhanced incremental and predictive processing, particularly for verb initial sentences. These findings indicate that time pressure and linear reading support the development of efficient processing routines in Latin, highlighting their potential role in optimizing second language learning strategies even for non spoken languages.