Abstract:

Of the 6000 languages in the world, half have less than 10,000 speakers, and a quarter less than 1000. Accumulations of small languages have led to widespread bi- and multilingualism, with more than half of the world´s languages spoken by bi- and multilinguals. Many larger languages are used as contact languages. Many of such contact languages become simplified. Pidgin languages are different. They develop through attempts at basic intercommunication between speakers of different languages. They have a limited vocabulary, and a limited grammar. If a pidgin language is extensively used, it develops and becomes richer. It eventually becomes the first language of children as a creole language. Chabacano is a typical example. As a well functioning language spoken by many over a long time it is a full language. Small and minority languages tend to become endangered, largely through pressure from monolingual speakers of large dominant languages and adverse governmental language policies. About 1970, a widespread revival of ethnic identity feeling started among speakers of minority languages, and governments often changed their language policies to positive ones. Many people kept their own languages. Bi- and multilingualism has advantages over monolingualism in matters of applied intellect, and memory and learning capacities. More languages survive now.

Author: Stephen A. Wurm