Ethnologues

Ethnologue is a comprehensive reference work on the world's languages, published by the Summer Institute of Linguistics (SIL International). It provides detailed information on the world's languages, including their classification, distribution, number of speakers, and other relevant linguistic data. The most recent edition, Ethnologue: Languages of the World, 21st edition, was published in 2021.

The primary goal of Ethnologue is to document and preserve linguistic diversity. It includes data on all known living human languages, as well as many extinct and reconstructed languages. The database is continually updated to reflect the latest linguistic research and fieldwork.

Ethnologue is widely used by linguists, anthropologists, educators, and policymakers. It serves as a valuable resource for understanding the linguistic landscape of the world, identifying languages in need of documentation and preservation, and promoting linguistic diversity.

The database is available in both print and digital formats. The digital version, Ethnologue: Languages of the World, 21st edition, is accessible online through the SIL International website, and it includes advanced search and filtering options to help users find specific information.

Ethnologue is a collaborative effort involving linguists, fieldworkers, and other experts from around the world. The data is collected through a combination of fieldwork, literature review, and expert consultation. The database is reviewed and updated regularly to ensure its accuracy and comprehensiveness.

In addition to its primary function as a reference work, Ethnologue also plays a role in promoting language documentation and preservation efforts. It helps to identify languages that are at risk of extinction and provides information on the resources and strategies needed to document and preserve them. This includes support for language revitalization efforts, as well as efforts to document and preserve endangered languages.

Overall, Ethnologue is a valuable resource for anyone interested in the world's languages, their distribution, and their speakers. It provides a wealth of information on the linguistic diversity of the world and plays a crucial role in promoting linguistic preservation and documentation efforts.