One of the most interesting things about learning a language is seeing the different ways that a language/culture categorizes reality.
We are now beginning our study of Sango, the main trade language of Central African Republic. Although French is used in official documents and learned circles...Sango is the language that common people (especially in the capital Bangui) speak most.
I learned an interesting verb in Sango today. The verb is toto (said with two 'low' tones). It can mean 'cry' for a baby or 'bark' for a dog.
Interesting, huh? All sentimentalism aside...a baby's cry and a dog's bark do have similar qualities, don't they?
Cool discovery! I especially enjoyed the juxtaposed pictures. Striking likeness :)
ReplyDeleteJohn