In this article, we delve into the interesting topic of Melanau language. Along these lines, we will explore the different aspects that make Melanau language a topic of relevance and interest today. From its origin and evolution, to its impact on society, we will thoroughly examine every facet of Melanau language. Likewise, we will analyze the implications that Melanau language has in various areas, highlighting its importance in the academic, cultural, social and technological fields. Through this exploration, we will seek to shed light on the nuances and complexities that characterize Melanau language, offering a comprehensive vision that allows the reader to understand its scope and relevance in the current context.
Melanau | |
---|---|
Central Melanau | |
Native to | Malaysia, Brunei |
Region | Sarawak and neighbouring Brunei |
Ethnicity | Melanau people |
Native speakers | 110,000 (2000) |
Austronesian
| |
Language codes | |
ISO 639-3 | Variously:mel – Central Melanaudro – Daro-Matu Melanausdx – Sibu Melanau |
Glottolog | cent2101 Centraldaro1239 Daro-Matusibu1258 Sibu |
Melanau is an Austronesian language spoken in the coastal area of the Rajang delta on northwest Borneo, Sarawak, Malaysia and Brunei. There are several dialects—Mukah-Oya, Balingian, Bruit, Dalat, Lawas, Igan, Sarikei, Segahan, Prehan, Segalang, and Siteng.
Melanau has the following consonants.
Bilabial | Coronal | Palatal | Velar | Uvular | Glottal | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Nasals | m | n | ɲ | ŋ | |||
Plosives and affricates |
voiceless | p | t | tʃ | k | ʔ | |
voiced | b | d | dʒ | ɡ | |||
Fricatives | s | h, ɦ | |||||
Lateral | l | ||||||
Trills | r | ʀ | |||||
Semivowels | w | j |
Melanau has the following vowels.
front | central | back rounded | |
---|---|---|---|
High | i | u | |
Mid | ɛ | ə | ɔ |
Low | a |
Sounds /i a u ɔ/ can have allophones of .