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| code | name_en | population | region | name_alt | dialects | language_use | development | comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| yer | Tarok | 300,000 (1998 Blench). | Plateau State, Kanam, Wase, and Langtang LGAs; Gongola State, Wukari LGA. | Izini (Hill Tarok), Itarok (Plain Tarok), Selyer, Itarok Oga Asa, Igyang. | Apparently all that remains of the language is a song, known by speakers of Sandani (Kwanja). | Literacy rate in first language: 5% to 10%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Literacy program in progress. Dictionary. NT: 1988. | Literacy rate in first language: 5% to 10%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Literacy program in progress. Dictionary. NT: 1988. | |
| yes | Yeskwa | 13,000 (1973 SIL). | Kaduna State, Jema'a LGA; Nasarawa State, Keffi LGA. | Panda, Nyenkpa, Tattara, Bede, Buzi. | Apparently all that remains of the language is a song, known by speakers of Sandani (Kwanja). | Literacy rate in first language: 5% to 10%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Literacy program in progress. Dictionary. NT: 1988. | Literacy rate in first language: 5% to 10%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Literacy program in progress. Dictionary. NT: 1988. | |
| yet | Yetfa | 200 in Papua New Guinea (1992 SIL). | South of the Green River, and into Papua, Indonesia. | Yetfa and Biksi are 2 ethnic groups, speaking the same language. | Trade language in the area, extending to Papua New Guinea border. Used in the home, market, and religious services. | Literacy rate in first language: 5% to 10%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Literacy program in progress. Dictionary. NT: 1988. | Literacy rate in first language: 5% to 10%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Literacy program in progress. Dictionary. NT: 1988. | |
| yeu | Yerukula | 300,000 (1997). | Andhra Pradesh, Rayalseema, Telengana and Andhra regions; Tamil Nadu, Nilgiri, Coimbatore, Periyar, Salem, Chengai Anna; Karnataka; Kerala; Maharashtra. | Parikala, Sankara-Yerukala. Close to Ravula and Irula. Lexical similarity among varieties ranges from 53% to 81%, with Irula from 33% to 38%, with Ravula from 28% to 45%, with Tamil from 27% to 45%. | Fairly vigorous language use. In Andhra Pradesh, increasing use in home, friends, religion. In Rayalseema and Telengana regions it is even greater. Positive language attitude. Some regions have low bilingual proficiency in Telugu, higher in Andhra Pradesh and among educated adults. | Literacy rate in second language: 14.5%. Most want Yerukula books, but script decision is sensitive. Telugu script. | Literacy rate in second language: 14.5%. Most want Yerukula books, but script decision is sensitive. Telugu script. | |
| yev | Yapunda | 60 (2000 Wurm). | Sandaun Province. | Parikala, Sankara-Yerukala. Close to Ravula and Irula. Lexical similarity among varieties ranges from 53% to 81%, with Irula from 33% to 38%, with Ravula from 28% to 45%, with Tamil from 27% to 45%. | Fairly vigorous language use. In Andhra Pradesh, increasing use in home, friends, religion. In Rayalseema and Telengana regions it is even greater. Positive language attitude. Some regions have low bilingual proficiency in Telugu, higher in Andhra Pradesh and among educated adults. | Literacy rate in second language: 14.5%. Most want Yerukula books, but script decision is sensitive. Telugu script. | Literacy rate in second language: 14.5%. Most want Yerukula books, but script decision is sensitive. Telugu script. | |
| ygm | Yagomi | 283 (2003 SIL). | Madang Province, Saidor District, Yagomi village, on the coast southeast of Seure. | Parikala, Sankara-Yerukala. Close to Ravula and Irula. Lexical similarity among varieties ranges from 53% to 81%, with Irula from 33% to 38%, with Ravula from 28% to 45%, with Tamil from 27% to 45%. | Fairly vigorous language use. In Andhra Pradesh, increasing use in home, friends, religion. In Rayalseema and Telengana regions it is even greater. Positive language attitude. Some regions have low bilingual proficiency in Telugu, higher in Andhra Pradesh and among educated adults. | Literacy rate in second language: 14.5%. Most want Yerukula books, but script decision is sensitive. Telugu script. | Literacy rate in second language: 14.5%. Most want Yerukula books, but script decision is sensitive. Telugu script. | |
| ygr | Yagaria | 21,116 (1982 SIL). | Eastern Highlands Province, Goroka District. | Kami-Kulaka, Move, Ologuti, Dagenava, Kamate, Hira, Hua (Huva), Kotom. | Fairly vigorous language use. In Andhra Pradesh, increasing use in home, friends, religion. In Rayalseema and Telengana regions it is even greater. Positive language attitude. Some regions have low bilingual proficiency in Telugu, higher in Andhra Pradesh and among educated adults. | Dictionary. Grammar. NT: 1977. | Dictionary. Grammar. NT: 1977. | |
| ygw | Yagwoia | 9,000 (1987 SIL). | Morobe Province, Menyamya District, extending into Gulf Province; Eastern Highlands Province, one section west of the Tauri River, the other north of Menye. | Close to Chimbari, Hamtai, Barua, Menya. Closest, Menya. | All domains. They speak Tok Pisin with routine proficiency to outsiders. | Literacy rate in first language: 5% to 15%. Literacy rate in second language: 5% to 15% in Tok Pisin. | Literacy rate in first language: 5% to 15%. Literacy rate in second language: 5% to 15% in Tok Pisin. | |
| yhd | Arabic, Judeo-Iraqi | 100 to 150 in Iraq (1992 H. Mutzafi). | Most in Israel. | Not intelligible with Judeo-Tripolitanian Arabic, Judeo-Tunisian Arabic, or Judeo-Moroccan Arabic. Close to Baghdadi Arabic and North Mesopotamian Arabic. | Speakers are older adults. | Hebrew script. | Hebrew script. | |
| yia | Yinggarda | 5 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). | Western Australia, coast at Shark Bay between Gascoyne and Wooramel rivers, inland to Red Hill, West Pilbara. | Related to Malgana which is extinct, Nhanda which is nearly extinct (handful of speakers, Blevins 1995), and Bulinya which may be extinct. | Speakers are older adults. | Dictionary. Grammar. | Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yib | Yinglish | No estimate available. | Also spoken in United Kingdom. | Related to Malgana which is extinct, Nhanda which is nearly extinct (handful of speakers, Blevins 1995), and Bulinya which may be extinct. | Speakers also use English. | Dictionary. Grammar. | Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yif | Yi, Ache | 35,000 (2003). | Yunnan, in Shuangbo, Yimen, Eshan, and Lufeng counties. | Related to Malgana which is extinct, Nhanda which is nearly extinct (handful of speakers, Blevins 1995), and Bulinya which may be extinct. | Speakers also use English. | Dictionary. Grammar. | Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yig | Yi, Guizhou | 905,000 (2002 Chenmin). | Guizhou Province, Weining Yi-Hui-Miao Autonomous County, Dafang Autonomous County, Hezhang County, Pan County; some in the Baise District of western Guangxi. | Qian Xi, Bijie, Dafang. Distinct from other Yi. Intelligibility between dialects is reported to be low. | Speakers also use English. | There is a traditional orthography for Guizhou Yi, related to but distinct from the traditional orthographies used by some other Yi languages. Dictionary. | There is a traditional orthography for Guizhou Yi, related to but distinct from the traditional orthographies used by some other Yi languages. Dictionary. | |
| yih | Yiddish, Western | Ethnic population: 49,210 in Germany (2000 WCD). | Southwestern dialect in southern Germany, Switzerland, and Alsace (France), Midwestern dialect in central Germany and parts of the former Czechoslovakia, Northwestern dialect is northern Germany and the Netherlands. Also spoken in Belgium, France, Hungary, Israel, Netherlands, Switzerland. | Southwestern Yiddish, Midwestern Yiddish, Northwestern Yiddish. Western Yiddish originated in Germany, Holland, Switzerland, Alsace (France), Czechoslovakia, western Hungary. "The variety of Western Yiddish in Hungary is probably the most readily intelligible to Yiddish speakers in Romania, the Baltic, and the Slavic countries in the East. The Western Yiddish variety in Holland less so; the Western Yiddish in Alsace (France) and Switzerland, least so" (M. Herzog 1997). | On the eve of the Holocaust it was spoken by several tens of thousands. | Hebrew script. | Hebrew script. | |
| yii | Yidiny | 12 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). | Queensland, formerly Atherton Region. A few now at Palm Island Babinda, north to Gordonvale. | Gunggay, Yidiny, Madyay. | On the eve of the Holocaust it was spoken by several tens of thousands. | Dictionary. Grammar. | Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yij | Yindjibarndi | 500 to 600 (1990 Schmidt). | Roebourne, Western Australia, surrounding towns and stations. | Gunggay, Yidiny, Madyay. | Speakers also use English or Aboriginal English. | Dictionary. Grammar. | Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yik | Yi, Xishan Lalu | 320,000 (2002). | Western Yunnan, in Weishan, Yangbi, Midu, Xiaguan, Yongping, Baoshan, and Lancang counties. | Gunggay, Yidiny, Madyay. | Speakers also use English or Aboriginal English. | Dictionary. Grammar. | Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yil | Yindjilandji | 1 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). | Northern Territory, northeast of Wonarah. | Gunggay, Yidiny, Madyay. | Speakers also use English or Aboriginal English. | Dictionary. Grammar. | Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yim | Naga, Yimchungru | 37,000 (1997). | Nagaland, northern between Namchik and Patkoi, Tuensang District. | Tikhir, Wai, Chirr, Minir, Pherrongre, Yimchungru. The last three dialects listed are southern. | Speakers also use Naga Pidgin, Hindi, or English. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | |
| yin | Yinchia | 4,000 (1974 Hackett). | Shan State south. | Related to Riang Lang and Wa. Not Karen. | Speakers also use Naga Pidgin, Hindi, or English. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | |
| yio | Yi, Dayao | 170,000 (2002). | Yunnan, in Dayao, Yongren, Yao'an, Mouding, and Jingdong counties. | Related to Riang Lang and Wa. Not Karen. | Speakers also use Naga Pidgin, Hindi, or English. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | |
| yip | Yi, Poluo | 230,000 (2002). | Southeastern Yunnan, in Yanshan, Wenshan, Qiubei, Maguan, Pingbian, Guangnan, Xichou, and Hekou counties. | Related to Riang Lang and Wa. Not Karen. | Speakers also use Naga Pidgin, Hindi, or English. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | |
| yiq | Yi, Miqie | 13,000 (2002). | Yunnan, in Wuding, Fumin, Lufeng, Luquan, Yimen, and Anning counties. | Related to Riang Lang and Wa. Not Karen. | Speakers also use Naga Pidgin, Hindi, or English. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | |
| yir | Awyu, North | 1,500 (1987 SIL). | South coast west side of Digul River, south of Kombai, east of Awyu. | Related to Riang Lang and Wa. Not Karen. | Speakers also use Naga Pidgin, Hindi, or English. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | |
| yis | Yis | 325 (2003 SIL). | Sandaun Province. 5 villages. | Different dialects in each village. Related languages: Olo, Yau, Ningil, Valman. | Speakers also use Naga Pidgin, Hindi, or English. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | |
| yit | Yi, Eastern Lalu | 38,000 (2002). | Yunnan, in Xinping, Zhenyuan, Mojiang, and Yuanjiang counties. | Different dialects in each village. Related languages: Olo, Yau, Ningil, Valman. | Speakers also use Naga Pidgin, Hindi, or English. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | |
| yiu | Yi, Awu | 20,000 (2002). | Southeastern Yunnan in Mile County and Qujing Prefecture. | Northern Awu Yi, Southern Awu Yi. | Speakers also use Naga Pidgin, Hindi, or English. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | |
| yiv | Yi, Eshan-Xinping | 300,000 (2002). | Yunnan, in Eshan, Xinping, Yimen, Yuxi, Jiangchuan, Shuangbo, Puning, Dengjiang, and Yuanjiang counties. | Eshan Nasu, Xinping Nisu. | Speakers also use Naga Pidgin, Hindi, or English. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | Roman script. NT: 1981–1989. | |
| yix | Yi, Axi | 60,000 (2002). | Southeastern Yunnan in Mile, Luxi and Shilin counties. | Eshan Nasu, Xinping Nisu. | Speakers also use Mandarin Chinese. | A phonetic script. Dictionary. | A phonetic script. Dictionary. | |
| yiy | Yir Yoront | 15 (1991 Bruce Sommer). | Queensland, west central Cape York Peninsula, just southeast of Edward River. | Dangedl (Dhanu'un, Djudjan, Dudjym), Gorminang, Jir'jorond (Jirmel Mel-Jir, Ngamba'wandh, Yirmel, Yirtangettle, Yir Thangedl, Yirtutiym). | Most members of the ethnic group speak Torres Strait Creole. Some second-language speakers. Understanding of English is poor. | Dictionary. Grammar. | Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yiz | Yi, Azhe | 40,000 (2002). | Southeastern Yunnan in Mile County. | Dangedl (Dhanu'un, Djudjan, Dudjym), Gorminang, Jir'jorond (Jirmel Mel-Jir, Ngamba'wandh, Yirmel, Yirtangettle, Yir Thangedl, Yirtutiym). | Speakers also use Mandarin Chinese. | Dictionary. Grammar. | Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yka | Yakan | 10,787 in Malaysia (2000 WCD). | Sulu Archipelago, Basilan Island and small surrounding islands, Sakol Island, east coast of Zamboanga peninsula, western Mindanao. They live more concentrated away from the coast. Also spoken in Malaysia (Sabah). | Dangedl (Dhanu'un, Djudjan, Dudjym), Gorminang, Jir'jorond (Jirmel Mel-Jir, Ngamba'wandh, Yirmel, Yirtangettle, Yir Thangedl, Yirtutiym). | Vigorous. All domains. Local administration, commerce, religion, oral traditional literature. Positive language attitude. Percentage of monolinguals higher among older population, especially women. Younger people and men tend to be multilingual. 60% speak Tausug, 10% Chavacano (1990 census). Educated persons can communicate in Tagalog and English to some extent as well. Pilipino (Tagalog) is the medium of instruction in elementary school, English in secondary school. | Literacy rate in first language: 35%. Literacy rate in second language: 25%. Roman script. Newspapers. Radio programs. Dictionary. NT: 1984. | Literacy rate in first language: 35%. Literacy rate in second language: 25%. Roman script. Newspapers. Radio programs. Dictionary. NT: 1984. | |
| ykg | Yukaghir, Northern | 30 to 150 (1995 M. Krauss, 1989 census). Ethnic population: 230 to 1,100 (1995 M. Krauss, 1989 census). | Yakutia and the Kamchatka Peninsula. | Distinct from Southern Yukaghir (Kolyma). It may be distantly related to Altaic or Uralic. | Used in the home. Speakers are older adults. No sense of ethnic identity between speakers of the two Yukaghir varieties. People neutral or mildly supportive toward Yukaghir. Even is the literary language used. Speakers below 50 years use Russian as second language. All can speak Yakut. Reindeer herdsmen and some other families can speak Even. Chukot is also used. | Taught through fourth grade in the Adnriushkino settlement, and as an elective through eighth grade in Nelemnoye. Dictionary. Grammar. | Taught through fourth grade in the Adnriushkino settlement, and as an elective through eighth grade in Nelemnoye. Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yki | Yoke | 200 (1998 Donohue). | East of Warembori east of the Mamberamo River, Jayapura Kabupaten, Mantarbori village. Recently moved to coastal location from the interior. | Lexical similarity 33% with Warembori. | Vigorous. Used in religious services. All ages. Almost no ability in Indonesian. Some ability in Warembori, though more Warembori speak Yoke than vice versa. | Taught through fourth grade in the Adnriushkino settlement, and as an elective through eighth grade in Nelemnoye. Dictionary. Grammar. | Taught through fourth grade in the Adnriushkino settlement, and as an elective through eighth grade in Nelemnoye. Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| ykr | Yekora | 1,000 (1995 SIL). | Morobe Province, 2 villages near Morobe government station. | Close to Mawae. | Speakers also use Suena or Zia. | Taught through fourth grade in the Adnriushkino settlement, and as an elective through eighth grade in Nelemnoye. Dictionary. Grammar. | Taught through fourth grade in the Adnriushkino settlement, and as an elective through eighth grade in Nelemnoye. Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yky | Yakoma | 10,000 in Democratic Republic of the Congo. | Kembi and Ouango subprefectures. Mainly along the Ubangi River, and in administrative centers throughout Central African Republic. Also spoken in Democratic Republic of the Congo. | High intelligibility of Ngbandi and Sango. | Speakers also use Sango. | Taught through fourth grade in the Adnriushkino settlement, and as an elective through eighth grade in Nelemnoye. Dictionary. Grammar. | Taught through fourth grade in the Adnriushkino settlement, and as an elective through eighth grade in Nelemnoye. Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yla | Yaul | 1,210 (2003 SIL). | East Sepik Province. | Related to Langam, Mongol. | Speakers also use Sango. | Taught through fourth grade in the Adnriushkino settlement, and as an elective through eighth grade in Nelemnoye. Dictionary. Grammar. | Taught through fourth grade in the Adnriushkino settlement, and as an elective through eighth grade in Nelemnoye. Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yle | Yele | 3,750 (1998 Rossel Health Centres). 400 monolinguals. Ethnic population: 3,750 (1998). | Milne Bay Province, Misima District, Rossel Island at eastern end of Calvados chain, and 500 in Port Moresby and Alotau. | Daminyu, Bou, Wulanga, Jinjo, Abaletti, Jaru. Lexical similarity 8% with Daga (closest). | Vigorous. All domains. Oral use in preschool and elementary school, local administration, commerce. Oral and written use in churches. All ages. Positive language attitude. Half the children have elementary education in English. 1,200 can also speak Misima or English. Misima introduced as church language in the 1930s, English for trade and administration in about 1900, for elementary education in about 1948. | Literacy rate in first language: 29%. Literacy rate in second language: 75% to 100%. 1,100 can read it, 450 can write it. Dictionary. Grammar. NT: 1987. | Literacy rate in first language: 29%. Literacy rate in second language: 75% to 100%. 1,100 can read it, 450 can write it. Dictionary. Grammar. NT: 1987. | |
| ylg | Yelogu | 162 (2003 SIL). | East Sepik Province, one village in Ambunti District. | Daminyu, Bou, Wulanga, Jinjo, Abaletti, Jaru. Lexical similarity 8% with Daga (closest). | Vigorous. All domains. Oral use in preschool and elementary school, local administration, commerce. Oral and written use in churches. All ages. Positive language attitude. Half the children have elementary education in English. 1,200 can also speak Misima or English. Misima introduced as church language in the 1930s, English for trade and administration in about 1900, for elementary education in about 1948. | Literacy rate in first language: 29%. Literacy rate in second language: 75% to 100%. 1,100 can read it, 450 can write it. Dictionary. Grammar. NT: 1987. | Literacy rate in first language: 29%. Literacy rate in second language: 75% to 100%. 1,100 can read it, 450 can write it. Dictionary. Grammar. NT: 1987. | |
| yli | Yali, Angguruk | 15,000 (1991 UBS). | Central highlands area northwest of Nalca, east of Grand Valley Dani. | Related to Yali of Ninia and Yali of Pass Valley. | Vigorous. All domains. Oral use in preschool and elementary school, local administration, commerce. Oral and written use in churches. All ages. Positive language attitude. Half the children have elementary education in English. 1,200 can also speak Misima or English. Misima introduced as church language in the 1930s, English for trade and administration in about 1900, for elementary education in about 1948. | NT: 1988. | NT: 1988. | |
| yll | Yil | 2,472 (2000 census). | Sandaun Province, northwest of Au. 16 villages. | Lexical similarity 23% with Au. | Vigorous. All domains. Oral use in preschool and elementary school, local administration, commerce. Oral and written use in churches. All ages. Positive language attitude. Half the children have elementary education in English. 1,200 can also speak Misima or English. Misima introduced as church language in the 1930s, English for trade and administration in about 1900, for elementary education in about 1948. | Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ylm | Yi, Limi | 29,000 (2002). | Yunnan, in Yongde, Fengqing, and Yunxian counties. | Lexical similarity 23% with Au. | Vigorous. | Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ylo | Yi, Naluo | 40,000. | Yunnan, in Qiaojia, Wuding, Luquan, Yuanmou, and Huize counties. | Lexical similarity 23% with Au. | Vigorous. | Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ylr | Yalarnnga | Extinct. | Queensland around Burke River and Dajarra. | Lexical similarity 23% with Au. | Vigorous. | Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| yma | Yamphe | 1,722 (2001 census). | Koshi Zone, northern Sankhuwasawa District, both sides of the upper Arun River, Makalu Panchayat. To the south, the Jaljale Himal east of the Arun and the Apsuwakhola west of the Arun; to the north as far as the Leksuwakhola and Barun rivers. | Sibao-Yamphe, Pa-O. Related to Yamphu, but distinct in grammar and phonology. | Still spoken by many young people. | Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ymb | Yambes | 1,078 (2003 SIL). | East Sepik Province, Maprik District, northwest of Wom, east and southeast of Kombio, 4 villages. | West Yambes, East Yambes. | Still spoken by many young people. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| yme | Yameo | Extinct. | Marañon and Amazon rivers from the mouth of the Tigre to the Nanay River. | West Yambes, East Yambes. | Still spoken by many young people. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ymh | Yi, Mili | 23,000 (2002). | Yunnan, in Jingdong, Yunxian, Zhenyuan, and Xinping counties. | West Yambes, East Yambes. | Vigorous. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ymj | Yi, Muji | 52,000. | Southeastern Yunnan, in Gejiu, Mengzi, Pingbian, Hekou, and Jinping counties. | West Yambes, East Yambes. | Vigorous. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ymm | Maay | 594,520 (2000 WCD). 700,000 to 1,500,000 including the Digil dialects or languages. | Southern Somalia, Gedo Region, Middle and Lower Shabeelle, Middle and Lower Jubba, Baay, and Bakool regions. | Af-Helledi. It may be more than one language; the dialects form a continuum. Standard Somali is difficult or unintelligible to Maay speakers, except for those who have learned it through mass communications, urbanization, and internal movement. Different sentence structure and phonology from Somali. The Rahanwiin (Rahanweyn) clan confederacy speak various Maay dialects or languages. Af-Helledi is a Maay secret language used by hunters. | Used by the Tunni, Jiiddu, Garre, and Dabarre as second language. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ynd | Yandruwandha | 2 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). | South Australia around Moomba, and east into Queensland. | Af-Helledi. It may be more than one language; the dialects form a continuum. Standard Somali is difficult or unintelligible to Maay speakers, except for those who have learned it through mass communications, urbanization, and internal movement. Different sentence structure and phonology from Somali. The Rahanwiin (Rahanweyn) clan confederacy speak various Maay dialects or languages. Af-Helledi is a Maay secret language used by hunters. | Used by the Tunni, Jiiddu, Garre, and Dabarre as second language. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ynk | Yupik, Naukan | 75 (1990 L.D. Kaplan). Ethnic population: 350. | Chukota Region, Laurence, Lorino, and Whalen villages, scattered. Formerly spoken in Naukan village and the region surrounding East Cape, Chukot Peninsula, but they have been relocated. | 60% to 70% intelligibility of Chaplino. | Used by the Tunni, Jiiddu, Garre, and Dabarre as second language. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ynl | Yangulam | 405 (2000 census). | Madang Province. | Related to Kwato, Ogea, Uya, Duduela, Rerau, Jilim. | Used by the Tunni, Jiiddu, Garre, and Dabarre as second language. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ynn | Yana | Extinct. | Formerly in the Upper Sacramento Valley, California. | Northern Yana, Central Yana, Southern Yana, Yahi. | An extinct group of varieties, including Yahi. Extinct since 1917. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| yno | Yong | 12,561 (2000 WCD). | Chiangrai, Chiangmai, Lamphun. May also be in Muang Yong, northern Myanmar. | Phonology similar to Lü. | Speakers also use Northern Tai. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| ynu | Yahuna | Extinct. Ethnic population: Fewer than 23 in ethnic group, fewer than 20 on Umana River, 3 on Apaporis River (1988). | Umuqa River, a tributary of the Piraparana River. | Opaina, Datuana. | Members of the ethnic group now speak Macuna. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | Literacy rate in first language: below 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. | |
| yog | Yogad | 16,043 (1990 census). | Echague and several nearby towns, Isabela Province, Luzon. | Related to Ibanag and Gaddang. Lexical similarity 52% with Ilocano, 66% with Itawit, 63% with Ibanag. | Highly bilingual in Ilocano. | 77% literacy in Isabela in 1955. Dictionary. Grammar. | 77% literacy in Isabela in 1955. Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yoi | Yonaguni | 800 (2004). | Southern Okinawa; Yonaguni Island. | Inherent intelligibility is generally impossible, or very difficult, with other Ryukyuan languages and Japanese. | Older adult speakers can understand Japanese. Those 20 to 50 can understand Yonaguni, but mainly use Japanese at home and work (T. Fukuda SIL 1989). The younger the generation, the more fluently they speak Japanese (Hattori in Wurm and Hattori 1981). Those under 20 are monolingual in Japanese (T. Fukuda SIL 1989). | 77% literacy in Isabela in 1955. Dictionary. Grammar. | 77% literacy in Isabela in 1955. Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yok | Yokuts | 78 speakers of Northern Foothill Yokuts (1990 census). Ethnic population: 2,500 (2000 A. Yamamoto). | California, San Joaquin River and the slopes of the Sierra Nevada, San Joaquin Valley. | Northern Foothill Yokuts, Southern Foothill Yokuts, Valley Yokuts. Many subdialects. | Speakers are shifting to English. Southern Foothill and Valley Yokuts are extinct. Chukchansi trying to start language programs. Tachi has headstart language program. | Grammar. | Grammar. | |
| yon | Yonggom | 4,000 (1997 SIL). | Western Province along the Fly and Tedi (Alice) rivers and towards Lake Murray. | Lexical similarity 80% with North Muyu, 70% with South Muyu, 30% with Ninggerum. | Speakers are shifting to English. Southern Foothill and Valley Yokuts are extinct. Chukchansi trying to start language programs. Tachi has headstart language program. | Literacy rate in first language: 50% to 75%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. NT: 2004. | Literacy rate in first language: 50% to 75%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. NT: 2004. | |
| yor | Yoruba | 465,000 in Benin (1993 Johnstone). | Porto-Novo and throughout the country in the towns and major villages. | Egba. | Speakers also use French. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | |
| yos | Yos | 3,400 (1983). | Porto-Novo and throughout the country in the towns and major villages. | Egba. | Speakers also use French. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | |
| yox | Yoron | 950 (2004). | North central Okinawa; Yoron Island. | Inherent intelligibility is generally impossible, or very difficult, with other Ryukyuan languages and Japanese. Ryukyu languages are 62% to 70% cognate with Tokyo dialect of Japanese. | Older adult speakers can also understand and use Standard Japanese. Those from 20 to 50 understand Yoron, but mainly speak Standard Japanese at home and work. The younger the generation, the more fluently they speak Japanese (Wurm and Hattori 1981). Those under 20 are monolingual in Japanese (T. Fukuda SIL 1989). | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | |
| yoy | Yoy | 1,000 in Laos (1995 census). | Sakorn Nakorn. Also spoken in Laos. | Inherent intelligibility is generally impossible, or very difficult, with other Ryukyuan languages and Japanese. Ryukyu languages are 62% to 70% cognate with Tokyo dialect of Japanese. | All also use Lao. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | |
| ypl | Yi, Pula | 20,000 (2002). | Yunnan, in Honghe, Yuanyang, Yuanjiang, Gejiu, Shiping, and Jianshui counties. | Inherent intelligibility is generally impossible, or very difficult, with other Ryukyuan languages and Japanese. Ryukyu languages are 62% to 70% cognate with Tokyo dialect of Japanese. | All also use Lao. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | |
| ypw | Yi, Puwa | 29,000 (2002). | Yunnan, in Mengzi, Yanshan, and Kaiyuan counties. | Inherent intelligibility is generally impossible, or very difficult, with other Ryukyuan languages and Japanese. Ryukyu languages are 62% to 70% cognate with Tokyo dialect of Japanese. | All also use Lao. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 30%. | |
| yra | Yerakai | 390 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). | East Sepik Province, Ambunti District, southeast near government station, 2 villages. | Lexical similarity 6% with Middle Sepik languages. | All also use Lao. | Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. | Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. | |
| yrb | Yareba | 750 (1981 Wurm and Hattori). | Oro Province, Popondetta District. | Lexical similarity 6% with Middle Sepik languages. | Speakers are highly bilingual in Hiri Motu. | Literacy rate in first language: 75% to 100%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Dictionary. Grammar. NT: 1973. | Literacy rate in first language: 75% to 100%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Dictionary. Grammar. NT: 1973. | |
| yre | Yaouré | 24,600 (1991 Vanderaa). Population includes 13,000 in villages, 7,000 in cities (1982 SIL). | Bouaflé Department, Yaoure Canton of Bouafli Subprefecture, bounded on the south by Red Bandama, the east by the White Bandama River, the north by Lake Kossou, the west by Bouaflé. | Klan, Yaan, Taan, Yoo, Bhoo. Closest to Guro. | Speakers also use Gouro, Baoule, or Jula. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1999. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1999. | |
| yri | Yarí | 758 (2000 WCD). | Yarí River, Caquetá Region, above El Capitán waterfalls near the Yarí River. About 50 years ago 140 of them migrated to the Apaporis River, and settled on the upper Vaupés River near Puerto Nare. | Possibly a dialect of Carijona (Carib), a Western Tucanoan language, or Huitoto. | Speakers also use Gouro, Baoule, or Jula. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1999. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1999. | |
| yrk | Nenets | 26,730 (1989 census). Population includes 1,300 Forest Nenets, 25,000 Tundra Nenets. Ethnic population: 34,665 (1989 census) including 2,000 Forest Enets. | Northwest Siberia, tundra area from the mouth of the northern Dvina River in northeastern Europe to the delta of the Yenisei in Asia, and a scattering on the Kola Peninsula; Nenets, Yamalo-Nenets, and Taimyr national okrugs. | Forest Yurak, Tundra Yurak. | 80% use Nenets in daily life. Few domains. A few to half the children speak Nenets. Positive language attitude. Speakers also use Russian. | Most have attended school and read Russian. Dictionary. Grammar. | Most have attended school and read Russian. Dictionary. Grammar. | |
| yrl | Nhengatu | 2,000 in Venezuela (1987 Mosonyi). | Vaupés. | Based on Tupinambá, developed by the Portuguese during the 17th and 18th centuries as the language of communication. | Trade language. | NT: 1973. | NT: 1973. | |
| yrn | Yerong | 378 (2000 WCD). | Western Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Napo County, Longhe Township and Pohe Township, just northeast of where Yunnan, Guangxi, and Viet Nam meet. | Based on Tupinambá, developed by the Portuguese during the 17th and 18th centuries as the language of communication. | Trade language. | NT: 1973. | NT: 1973. | |
| yrw | Yarawata | 127 (2003 SIL). | Madang Province. | Related to Usan, Yaben, Bilakura, Parawen, Ukuriguma. | Trade language. | NT: 1973. | NT: 1973. | |
| ysl | Yugoslavian Sign Language | 30,000 users out of 60,000 deaf persons in the former larger Yugoslavia (1986 Gallaudet Univ.). | Also used in Slovenia. | Slovenian Sign Language. | First deaf school in 1840, but sign language is not used in schools. Interpreters are furnished in court. | TV. | TV. | |
| ysn | Yi, Sani | 90,000 (1991 EDCL). | Southeastern Yunnan in Shilin, Yilang, Mile, Luxi, and Qiubei Counties. | Northern Sani, Southern Sani. | Speakers also use Mandarin Chinese. | There is a traditional orthography for Sani, related to but distinct from the traditional orthographies used by some other Yi languages. Dictionary. | There is a traditional orthography for Sani, related to but distinct from the traditional orthographies used by some other Yi languages. Dictionary. | |
| yso | Yi, Southeastern Lolo | 36,000 (2002). | Southeastern Yunnan, in Maguan, Funing, Xichou, Malipo, and Honghe counties. | Northern Sani, Southern Sani. | Speakers also use Mandarin Chinese. | There is a traditional orthography for Sani, related to but distinct from the traditional orthographies used by some other Yi languages. Dictionary. | There is a traditional orthography for Sani, related to but distinct from the traditional orthographies used by some other Yi languages. Dictionary. | |
| ysp | Yi, Southern Lolopho | 190,000 (2002). | Yunnan, in Jingdong, Jinggu, Lancang, Zhenyuan, Simao, and Pu'er counties. | Northern Sani, Southern Sani. | Speakers also use Mandarin Chinese. | There is a traditional orthography for Sani, related to but distinct from the traditional orthographies used by some other Yi languages. Dictionary. | There is a traditional orthography for Sani, related to but distinct from the traditional orthographies used by some other Yi languages. Dictionary. | |
| ysr | Yupik, Sirenik | Extinct. | Chukot Peninsula, Sireniki village. | Northern Sani, Southern Sani. | It became extinct in 1997. Inuit residents of Sirenik village now speak Central Siberian Yupik. | There is a traditional orthography for Sani, related to but distinct from the traditional orthographies used by some other Yi languages. Dictionary. | There is a traditional orthography for Sani, related to but distinct from the traditional orthographies used by some other Yi languages. Dictionary. | |
| yss | Yessan-Mayo | 1,988 (2000 census). | East Sepik Province, Ambunti District, Sandaun Province, Wan Wan Division, south of Mehek. 10 villages. | Yawu (Yau, Yaw, Warasai), Mayo-Yessan. | It became extinct in 1997. Inuit residents of Sirenik village now speak Central Siberian Yupik. | Literacy rate in first language: 15% to 25%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Grammar. NT: 1980–2004. | Literacy rate in first language: 15% to 25%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Grammar. NT: 1980–2004. | |
| yua | Maya, Yucatán | Ethnic population: 5,000 in Belize (1991). | San Antonio and Succoths in Cayo District. It may still be spoken in the Orange Walk and Corozal districts near the Mexico border. | Yawu (Yau, Yaw, Warasai), Mayo-Yessan. | Speakers in Belize are shifting to Spanish. Many are concerned about language loss and are trying to start classes for the youth. Speakers are older adults. People in Succoths village say the older people speak Maya. | Bible: 1992. | Bible: 1992. | |
| yub | Yugambal | Extinct. | Queensland, Logan and Albert river basins from Jimboomba to MacPherson Range. | Yawu (Yau, Yaw, Warasai), Mayo-Yessan. | Speakers in Belize are shifting to Spanish. Many are concerned about language loss and are trying to start classes for the youth. Speakers are older adults. People in Succoths village say the older people speak Maya. | Grammar. | Grammar. | |
| yuc | Yuchi | 10 to 12 (1997 Mary Linn). Ethnic population: 1,500 (1977 SIL). | Among Creek people in east central Oklahoma. | Yawu (Yau, Yaw, Warasai), Mayo-Yessan. | Speakers are shifting to English. Speakers are older adults. | Dictionary. | Dictionary. | |
| yud | Arabic, Judeo-Tripolitanian | 30,000 in Israel (1994 H. Mutzafi). Population total all countries: 35,000. | Originally from Tripolitania, Libya. None left in Libya. Also spoken in Italy. | Not intelligible with Judeo-Iraqi Arabic. Medium intelligibility with Judeo-Tunisian Arabic and Judeo-Morocco Arabic. | Most speakers older than 40 years. Speakers in Israel are reported to be bilingual in Hebrew. | Hebrew script. | Hebrew script. | |
| yue | Chinese, Yue | 862,371 in Viet Nam (1999 census). | Soc Trang, Can Tho, Vinh Long, Tra Vinh, Dong Nai, and Kieng Giang provinces and in the cities of Ho Chi Minh, Hanoi, and Haiphong, and along the northern Viet Nam-China border regions. | Cantonese, Toishanese. | Speakers also use Spanish. | Chinese script in Viet Nam. TV. Grammar. Bible: 1894–1981. | Chinese script in Viet Nam. TV. Grammar. Bible: 1894–1981. | |
| yuf | Havasupai-Walapai-Yavapai | 2,693 (1990 census). Population includes 530 Havasupai speakers (2000 Yamamoto), 1,000 Walapai speakers (2000 Yamamoto), 163 Yavapai speakers. Ethnic population: 3,857 including 565 Havasupai, 1,872 Walapai, 1,420 Yavapai (2000). | Central and northwestern Arizona. The Walapai are on top of the south rim of the Grand Canyon, the Havasupai at the bottom. | Walapai (Hualpai, Hwalbáy), Havasupai, Yavapai. 78% to 98% intelligibility among the dialects. Lexical similarity 91% to 95% among the dialects. | Vigorous in Havasupai. All ages in Havasupai. Most or all Yavapai speakers are older adults. Many younger Walapai prefer English and some do not speak Walapai. Children being raised speaking Havasupai and Walapai (1998). | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 75% to 100%. Grammar. Bible portions: 1980. | Literacy rate in first language: 1% to 5%. Literacy rate in second language: 75% to 100%. Grammar. Bible portions: 1980. | |
| yui | Yurutí | 50 in Brazil (1991 SIL). | Iauarete, Amazonas. | Walapai (Hualpai, Hwalbáy), Havasupai, Yavapai. 78% to 98% intelligibility among the dialects. Lexical similarity 91% to 95% among the dialects. | Vigorous. Positive language attitude. Eastern Tucanoan languages within the region are learned. Tucano is the lingua franca along the Pacá and Caño Yi rivers. Spanish used in schools and government contexts. | Literacy rate in first language: 10%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. 5% can write Yuruti. Bible portions: 1985. | Literacy rate in first language: 10%. Literacy rate in second language: 15% to 25%. 5% can write Yuruti. Bible portions: 1985. | |
| yuj | Karkar-Yuri | 1,142 (1994 SIL). | Sandaun Province, Amanab District, along the Papua, Indonesia border. | North Central Yuri, Auia-Tarauwi, Usari. | Vigorous. Positive language attitude. Eastern Tucanoan languages within the region are learned. Tucano is the lingua franca along the Pacá and Caño Yi rivers. Spanish used in schools and government contexts. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 50%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1994. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 50%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1994. | |
| yuk | Yuki | Extinct. Ethnic population: 1,200 (2000 A. Yamamoto). | Formerly on the Round Valley Reservation, northern California. | North Central Yuri, Auia-Tarauwi, Usari. | Members of the ethnic group now speak English. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 50%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1994. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 50%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1994. | |
| yul | Yulu | 3,000 in Sudan (1987 SIL). Population includes 2,000 Yulu and 1,000 Binga. | Southern Sudan. The Yulu are at Khor Buga, 2 miles west of Raga in Western Bahr el Ghazal Province, and in Habbaniya District of Dar Fur. The Binga are at Menangba, west of Raga and in Democratic Republic of the Congo. | Binga, Yulu. | Many speakers also use Kresh or Arabic. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 50%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1994. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 50%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1994. | |
| yum | Quechan | 150 (1994 L. Hinton). Ethnic population: 3,000 (2000 A. Yamamoto). | Ft. Yuma Reservation, southeastern corner of California. | Close to Maricopa and Mohave. | Speakers are shifting to English. Speakers are older adults. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 50%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1994. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 50%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1994. | |
| yup | Yukpa | 500 in Venezuela. | Areas adjacent to Colombia border, Zulia State. | Yrapa, Río Negro. | Vigorous. Men can use Spanish for buying and selling only. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 50%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1994. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 50%. Literacy rate in second language: 25% to 50%. NT: 1994. | |
| yuq | Yuqui | 125 (2000 Adelaar). Ethnic population: 138 (2000 Adelaar). | Foothills north of Cochabamba, one location on the Chimoré River. | Close to Sirionó. | Speakers also use Spanish. | Bible portions. | Bible portions. | |
| yur | Yurok | 12 (2002 Goddard). Ethnic population: 3,000 to 4,500 possibly (1982 SIL). | Northwestern California. | Close to Sirionó. | Speakers are shifting to English. Speakers are older adults (Ives Goddard 2002). Few if any full bloods younger than 20 years old. | Bible portions. | Bible portions. | |
| yus | Maya, Chan Santa Cruz | 40,000 (1990 census). | East central Quintana Roo. | Close to Sirionó. | Speakers also use Maya of Yucatán. | Bible portions. | Bible portions. | |
| yut | Yopno | 7,200 (2000 census). | Madang Province and Morobe Province. | Kewieng, Nokopo, Wandabong, Isan. Related to Ma, Gabutamon. | Speakers also use Maya of Yucatán. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 35%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Bible portions: 1979–1993. | Literacy rate in first language: 25% to 35%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. Bible portions: 1979–1993. | |
| yuu | Yugh | 2 or 3 (1991 G. K. Verner in Kibrik). Nonfluent speakers. Ethnic population: 10 to 15 (1991 G. K. Verner in Kibrik). | Turukhan Region of the Krasnoyarsk Krai at the Vorogovo settlement. Previously they lived along the Yenisei River from Yeniseisk to the mouth of the Dupches. | Kewieng, Nokopo, Wandabong, Isan. Related to Ma, Gabutamon. | Speakers also use Maya of Yucatán. | Dictionary. | Dictionary. | |
| yuw | Yau | 1,700 (1991 SIL). | Morobe Province, Kabwum District. Villages include Worin, Yawan, Kotet, Mitmit, Mup, Sindamon. | Northern Yau, Headwaters Yau. The dialects listed are also names of villages. | Speakers also use Maya of Yucatán. | Literacy rate in first language: 50% to 75%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. NT: 1997. | Literacy rate in first language: 50% to 75%. Literacy rate in second language: 50% to 75%. NT: 1997. | |
| yux | Yukaghir, Southern | 10 to 50 (1995 M. Krauss, 1989 census). Ethnic population: 130 (1995 M. Krauss, 1989 census). | Yakutia and the Kamchatka Peninsula. | Not inherently intelligible with Northern Yukaghir. | Used in the home. Speakers are older adults. All can speak Russian as second language, especially those below 40. Those above 35 can speak Yakut, and those over 60 can speak Even. Russian is used as a literary language. | Dictionary. | Dictionary. | |
| yuy | Yugur, East | 3,000 (1999 Junast). Ethnic population: 6,000 (2000 D. Bradley). | Northwest Gansu Province, eastern Sunan Yugur Autonomous County, Kangle, Mati, and Dahe districts. | Not inherently intelligible with Northern Yukaghir. | Speakers also use Mandarin Chinese. | Literacy rate in second language: 59%. Written Chinese is in use. Dictionary. Grammar. | Literacy rate in second language: 59%. Written Chinese is in use. Dictionary. Grammar. |
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