After largely falling out of common use, the UK has seen a revival of its native language.
Shwmae Sumae Day has been marked in Wales every 15 October since 2013; which celebrates and promotes the Welsh language (shwmae and sumae translate as 'hi').
Kernwek (Cornwall's native language) was generally considered to be extinct as a living language by the 18th century – although knowledge and some speaking existed within some families and individuals. In 2010, UNESCO reclassified the language as critically endangered after efforts to revive it took off, and many road signs in Cornwall now have their original Kernwek names included.
Find out how many native languages the UK has, and how you can start learning them yourself.
How many native languages does the UK have?
At least 10 native languages are spoken in Britain. Among them are sign languages, traveller tongues including Angloromani and Shelta, and Scots and its derivatives such as Doric, which is related to Friesian and Norwegian and spoken in Aberdeenshire.
Others are the legacy of Celtic-language-speaking peoples who were divided when Anglo-Saxons colonised the land that became known as England.
Subsequently, the closely related Cymraeg (Welsh) and Kernewek (Cornish), and the inter-related Ghàidhlig (Scottish Gaelic), Gaeilge (Irish Gaelic) and Gaelg (Manx) evolved separately. Yet unlike most of the global population, England itself is largely monoglot, despite language-learning being beneficial.
Benefits of learning a language
Science shows advantages of learning a language include delayed onset of dementia and better concentration and memory. Communication skills and empathy also improve, benefiting learners and speakers alike.
Native languages also complement cultural understanding. Drawing on my own experience of learning Cymraeg (Welsh) on moving to Cymru (Wales), my landscape comprehension has improved. Welsh natural history burst into life as I discovered that over 200 Welsh place names refer to wolves. Cymraeg has also improved my relationship with the rural community. Yet, as with native languages elsewhere, and although Cymraeg is taught in schools, it’s spoken less in public places as newcomers are accommodated.
How to learn a native language
If you live where a native language is spoken, ask your local library about classes and resources.
If you wish to learn from afar, Duolingo offers courses in Welsh, Irish and Scottish Gaelic, or try websites such as Go Cornish and Learn Manx. Mix it up with children’s books, radio and subtitled television. But nothing beats a pint with a patient native-language-speaking friend. Amdani! (Let’s go!)
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