What typology asks
Linguistic typology compares structural patterns across languages. A category such as dominant word order is an analytical summary of a selected sample, not a sentence-by-sentence rule. Before using a typological label, inspect its definition, the corpus behind it and whether the language actually offers enough evidence to classify. A few formulaic inscriptions may not support a claim about ordinary clause order.
Operational definitions
A noun class or gender system is established through agreement behavior, not simply the shape of noun endings. A plural category may be signalled by a suffix, prefix, reduplication, tone, a separate word or no obligatory marking. WALS uses explicit criteria to separate these strategies. Reproduce the criteria when comparing an ancient grammar with a modern sample.
Why comparison helps
Comparison reveals questions that a familiar school grammar might overlook: Could pitch distinguish inflected forms? Can an object precede a verb? Does an adjective agree with a noun? It does not fill a missing ancient paradigm. The ancient corpus still determines which feature is attested.
Modern-language examples on this page clarify a linguistic pattern. They do not establish unattested sounds or forms for an ancient language. Follow the cited sources below and keep editorial readings separate from the surviving trace.