Difference between revisions of "African languages"
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| − | It is estimated that there are 1250 to 2100 (and by some counts over 3000) languages spoken natively in Africa | + | It is estimated that there are 1250 to 2100 (and by some counts over 3000) languages spoken natively in [[Africa]], it all depends on how you count them. |
However, the key issue is the definition of [[African]] in this context, for there are a number of conflicting interpretations, often based on political and other imperatives. | However, the key issue is the definition of [[African]] in this context, for there are a number of conflicting interpretations, often based on political and other imperatives. | ||
| − | The core distinction is whether or not the languages of European origin can be considered African languages or not. | + | The core distinction is whether or not the languages of [[European]] or [[Asian]] origin can be considered [[African]] languages or not. Notably languages which have developed own [[African]] versions (the regional African dialects of French, Portuguese, Italian, German and so on, and even new independent Indo-European languages, such as [[Afrikaans]], a blend of [[Southern African]] indigenous and Eastern and European languages.) |
Latest revision as of 17:50, 19 February 2014
It is estimated that there are 1250 to 2100 (and by some counts over 3000) languages spoken natively in Africa, it all depends on how you count them.
However, the key issue is the definition of African in this context, for there are a number of conflicting interpretations, often based on political and other imperatives.
The core distinction is whether or not the languages of European or Asian origin can be considered African languages or not. Notably languages which have developed own African versions (the regional African dialects of French, Portuguese, Italian, German and so on, and even new independent Indo-European languages, such as Afrikaans, a blend of Southern African indigenous and Eastern and European languages.)
Sources
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Languages_of_Africa
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