A while ago, we discussed the plausibility of a language to have fewer than two phonemic vowels, using the Moloko language as a case study. We ultimately learned that Moloko could have one or two phonemic vowels depending on how one analyses its sound system, and breaks down its surface vowel system. However, when reading … Continue reading A language with no phonemic vowels?
Chadic
Are there languages with fewer than 2 phonemic vowels?
Amongst the languages of the world, some are known for having an unusually large number of phonemic vowels in their phonological inventories, with one of the most popular examples being the Danish language, if we are discounting additional phonation types like breathiness. Today, I want to take a look in the other extreme, and try … Continue reading Are there languages with fewer than 2 phonemic vowels?
The Language Closet 