Linguistic determinism is best defined as:

Linguistic determinism posits that language shapes and constrains our thoughts and perceptions of the world around us. This theory suggests that the structure and vocabulary available in a language influence how individuals interpret and understand their experiences. For example, if a language lacks certain words or grammatical structures, speakers of that language may find it difficult to conceptualize certain ideas or experiences, effectively meaning their thoughts are limited by the language they use. This concept underlines the profound impact of language on cognitive processes and worldview, making it a foundational idea in the study of language and cognition.

Understanding this definition highlights the relationship between language and thought, emphasizing that linguistic frameworks can fundamentally influence how we engage with and interpret our reality. Other views on language, such as those reflected in the other choices, either diminish the role of language in shaping thought or suggest a separation between the two, which does not align with the tenets of linguistic determinism.