The Mayan languages are a group of languages spoken by the indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica. There are over 30 different Mayan languages, each with its own unique characteristics and dialects. If you want to refer to these languages in English, here are some tips on how to say them correctly.
Yucatec Maya
One of the most well-known Mayan languages is Yucatec Maya, spoken by the Maya people in the Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico. In English, you can simply refer to this language as Yucatec Maya.
K’iche’ (Quiché)
Another prominent Mayan language is K’iche’, also known as Quiché. This language is spoken by the K’iche’ people in Guatemala. In English, you can refer to this language as either K’iche’ or Quiché.
Q’eqchi’ (Kekchi)
Q’eqchi’ is another Mayan language spoken by the Q’eqchi’ people in Guatemala and Belize. In English, you can refer to this language as Q’eqchi’ or Kekchi.
Mam
Mam is a Mayan language spoken by the Mam people in Guatemala and Mexico. In English, you can refer to this language simply as Mam.
Itza’
Itza’ is a Mayan language spoken by the Itza’ people in the Petén region of Guatemala. In English, you can refer to this language as Itza’.
Other Mayan Languages
There are many other Mayan languages spoken throughout Mesoamerica, each with its own unique characteristics and dialects. Some other Mayan languages include Tz’utujil, Kaqchikel, Poqomam, and Ch’orti’. When referring to these languages in English, it is best to use their original names as much as possible.
Conclusion
The Mayan languages are an important part of the cultural heritage of Mesoamerica. When referring to these languages in English, it is important to use the correct names to show respect for the indigenous peoples who speak them. By using the correct names for the Mayan languages, we can help preserve and promote the rich linguistic diversity of Mesoamerica.