Western Tibet: Everyday Phrases in Endangered Languages

Western Tibet is home to several endangered languages spoken by small communities. These languages, rich in history, are at risk of disappearing. By learning and using key phrases, we can help preserve them.

Below are six common phrases translated into endangered languages from Western Tibet. Each sentence includes the original language, pronunciation, and English meaning. These phrases are part of daily life and help maintain cultural identity.

1. Ladakhi (Ladakspa)

• Hello, good morning → “Jule!” (ˈdʑu.le)
• I am hungry → “Nga za-tsos yin.” (ŋa za-tsʰos jin)
• Have a good night → “Gikpai namshar!” (ɡik.pai nam.ʂar)
• Where are you from? → “Khyed rang gate nay yin?” (kʰje rang gate nai jin)
• Thank you very much → “Thuk-je-che!” (tʰuk dʑe tʃʰe)
• How are you? → “Khyed-rang kusho yin-pe?” (kʰjed raŋ ku.ʂo jin.pe)

2. Balti

• Hello, good morning → “As-salaam-u-alaikum!” (as.sa.laː.mu a.lai.kum)
• I am hungry → “Nga treshang du.” (ŋa tre.ʂaŋ du)
• Have a good night → “Shab bakhair!” (ʃab bakʰair)
• Where are you from? → “Thu gonde rang?” (tʰu gon.de raŋ)
• Thank you very much → “Bay skong jo!” (bɛ skʰoŋ dʑo)
• How are you? → “Thu tik ring?” (tʰu tik riŋ)

3. Zhangzhung (Critically endangered)

• Hello, good morning → “Kho nye so!” (kʰo ɲe so)
• I am hungry → “Nga di ku.” (ŋa di ku)
• Have a good night → “Shi nye la!” (ʃi ɲe la)
• Where are you from? → “Ne kang wo?” (ne kaŋ wo)
• Thank you very much → “Drin chen!” (drin tʃʰen)
• How are you? → “Nyang kye re?” (ɲaŋ kje re)

Conclusion

Languages in Western Tibet are disappearing due to modernization and the spread of dominant languages like Mandarin and Tibetan dialects. Each phrase learned is a step toward preserving these endangered languages. Simple words help keep cultural identity alive and strengthen connections between generations.

Even small efforts—like greeting someone in Ladakhi, Balti, or Zhangzhung—can make a difference. Speaking and sharing endangered languages keeps them from fading away. Let’s continue to learn and support linguistic diversity in Tibet.