Conlanging

Conlanging is the practice of constructing artificial languages, or conlangs, for fictional worlds, linguistic experimentation, or practical communication. A conlang typically includes a phonology, grammar, vocabulary, and a writing system, all designed by an individual or a group.

The field has roots in 19th-century planned languages such as Volapük and Esperanto and expanded through fiction, notably J. R. R. Tolkien’s Quenya and Sindarin. In contemporary media, languages like Klingon, Dothraki, and Valyrian have popularized conlanging beyond linguistic hobbyists. Conlangs are often categorized as artistic languages intended for storytelling, auxiliary or international languages aimed at ease of learning, and experimental or research-oriented languages.

Core design decisions include phonology (sounds and phonotactics), morphology (how words are formed), syntax (sentence structure), and lexicon (vocabulary). Writers and designers may also create writing systems, historical sound changes, and cultural contexts to give the language depth. Balancing internal consistency with usability is a common challenge.

The process typically starts with a set of goals, followed by drafting a grammar, compiling a lexicon, and producing sample texts. Tools range from hand-written grammars to digital dictionaries and fonts for custom scripts. Communities and resources online provide feedback, collaboration, and publishing venues for grammars and conlangs.

Notable impacts include influencing viewers or readers, guiding worldbuilding, and contributing to linguistic experimentation. Conlanging remains a diverse field linking linguistics, storytelling, and community-driven creativity.