Paakantyi language facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Darling |
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|---|---|
| Paakantyi | |
| Native to | Australia |
| Ethnicity | Paakantyi, Kula (Kurnu), Naualko, Paaruntyi, Parrintyi, Wilyakali (Wiljali), Danggali, Maraura, Wanjiwalku |
| Native speakers | 110 (2021 census) |
| Language family |
Pama–Nyungan
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| Dialects |
?Gurnu (Guula)
Naualko
Baarundji
Barrindji
Wiljaali
Dhanggaali (Thangkaali)
Bulaali
Wanyuparlku (Wanyuparlku)
Pantyikali
Marawara (Maraura)
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| AIATSIS | D12 |
The Darling language (green) among other Pama–Nyungan (tan)
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The Paakantyi language, also known as the Darling language, is an important Aboriginal language from Australia. It was traditionally spoken along the Darling River in New South Wales. This river is called the Paaka by the Paakantyi people. The name Paakantyi means "belonging to the Paaka" or "belonging to the Darling River." The people who speak this language are also called the Paakantyi.
A lot of important work on the Paakantyi language has been done by a linguist named Luise Hercus.
Contents
The Paakantyi Language
The Paakantyi language is also spelled in different ways. Some common spellings include Paakantji, Barkindji, Barkandji, and Baagandji. It is a very old language, spoken by Aboriginal people for thousands of years.
Where the Paakantyi Language is Spoken
The Paakantyi language was spoken by Aboriginal people living along the Darling River. This area stretches from present-day Bourke to Wentworth in New South Wales. It also includes lands around the Paroo River and Broken Hill.
Different Ways of Speaking Paakantyi
Just like different parts of a country might have different accents, the Paakantyi language had different ways of being spoken. These are called dialects. Some of the dialects of Paakantyi include:
- Southern Paakantyi (Baagandji, Bagundji)
- Kurnu (Kula)
- Wilyakali (Wiljagali)
- Pantyikali-Wanyiwalku (Wanyuparlku, Bandjigali, Baarundji)
- Parrintyi (Barrindji)
- Marawara (Maraura)
Some experts believe that Gurnu or Guula might be a separate language. However, it is very similar to Paakantyi.
How Many Speakers Today?
In 2012, a report said that only two people could speak the Darling language fluently. This means they could speak it easily and well. However, in the 2021 census, 111 people said that Paakantyi was spoken in their homes. This shows that efforts are being made to bring the language back.
