kümnendkeeled

Kümnendkeeled, meaning "tenth languages" in Estonian, refers to a concept of linguistic diversity that emphasizes the potential for a small number of languages to hold significant global influence or to represent a substantial portion of the world's speakers. The term is not a formally recognized linguistic classification but rather a conceptual framework. It suggests that a focused study or preservation effort on a select group of languages, perhaps ten in number, could capture a large percentage of human linguistic experience and communication. The idea is rooted in the observation that a disproportionate number of the world's population speaks a limited set of languages. By identifying and understanding these dominant or highly influential languages, one might gain a comprehensive understanding of global communication patterns and cultural diversity without needing to study every single existing language. The specific languages included in any hypothetical "kümnendkeeled" list would likely vary depending on the criteria used, such as the number of native speakers, the number of second-language speakers, economic influence, or cultural reach. This concept encourages a pragmatic approach to language study and preservation, acknowledging the practical limitations of mastering numerous languages while still valuing the richness of global linguistic heritage.