Manyjilyjarra dialect facts for kids

Manjiljarra (also called Manyjilyjarra or Mandjildjara) is an Aboriginal language from Australia. It belongs to a very large group of languages known as the Pama–Nyungan family. Within this big family, Manjiljarra is part of a smaller group called the Wati languages.

Some people think of Manjiljarra as a type of Western Desert Language. However, many language experts now see it as its own distinct language. Manjiljarra is also a key part of Martu Wangka. This is a special mix of languages spoken by the Martu people in Western Australia.

Manjiljarra Sign Language

Did you know that many Aboriginal groups in central Australia used special sign languages? These weren't just simple hand gestures. They were full languages that used signs instead of spoken words.

The Manjiljarra people also had their own sign language. We don't know exactly how much it was used or how detailed it was. However, it was an important way for them to communicate.