Sranan Tongo facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Sranan Tongo |
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| Sranan Tongo | |
Message written in Sranan Tongo
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| Native to | Suriname |
| Native speakers | (130,000 cited 1993)e18 |
| Language family |
English Creole
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| Linguasphere | 52-ABB-aw |
Sranan Tongo (also called Sranantongo or just Sranan) is a special kind of language known as an English creole. It is mainly spoken in the country of Suriname, which is located in South America. Many people in Suriname use Sranan Tongo every day.
Contents
What is Sranan Tongo?
Sranan Tongo is a creole language. A creole language forms when different groups of people, who speak different languages, need to communicate. Over time, they create a new language that combines parts of their original languages. Sranan Tongo is mostly based on English words, but it also has words from other languages.
Where is Sranan Tongo Spoken?
Sranan Tongo is the most widely spoken language in Suriname. Suriname is a country on the northeastern coast of South America. It is known for its vast rainforests, Dutch colonial architecture, and a diverse culture. While Dutch is the official language of Suriname, Sranan Tongo is often used as a common language among people who speak different native tongues. It helps everyone understand each other.
How Did Sranan Tongo Start?
Sranan Tongo began to develop a long time ago, in the 17th century. At that time, people from different parts of the world were brought to Suriname. These included enslaved people from West Africa and European colonists, mainly from England and later the Netherlands. To communicate with each other and with their enslavers, they started to mix words and grammar from their different languages.
A Mix of Languages
The main language that Sranan Tongo is based on is English. This is because English was the first European language widely used in Suriname. However, it also has many words and influences from Dutch, Portuguese, and various African languages. The grammar and sounds of Sranan Tongo also show strong links to West African languages. This mix makes Sranan Tongo a unique and interesting language.
Why is Sranan Tongo Important?
Sranan Tongo is very important to the people of Suriname. It is not just a way to talk; it is also a big part of their national identity. Many people use it in their daily lives, in music, and sometimes even in government. It acts as a "lingua franca," which means a common language used by people who speak different first languages. This helps bring the diverse communities of Suriname together.
Images for kids
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Message written in Sranan Tongo in the guestbook in the Land of Hayracks, an open-air museum in Slovenia (April 2016)
See also
In Spanish: Sranan tongo para niños
