Summary myth 19

Aborigines Speak a Primitive Language

There are different sub-myths about the Aboriginal language:

One Aboriginal language

Aboriginal Australia displays striking linguistic diversity and, traditionally, around 250 languages, further subdivisable into many dialects, were spoken over the continent. Some are more related to each other than others. Because of all the different languages it was normal to be multilingual by adulthood.

 There is no grammar

While it is true that words can be put in any order, it does not indicate lack of grammar – grammar, as a code for expressing meaning, can take the work is done by word endings rather than word ordering. Not all grammar of Aboriginal languages work this way.

 Just a few hundred words and you’ve got it all

The Aboriginal languages have a very fine detailed and nuanced language. Especially with words in the biological world and ecological world they are great.

 They might be OK in the bush, but there’s no way they can deal with the modern world.

They maybe lack many term, but with their rich grammars give them the capacity to develop them when they are needed. But you can also borrow words and extend the meaning of words so you have a wider vocabulary in you language. Warlpiri can now be used to discuss central concepts of nuclear physics is clear testimony to adaptability of Aboriginal languages.