How to Make a Language: The Basics

Summary

This video delves into the process of creating a conlang (constructed language), focusing on naming languages. Naming languages are simpler conlangs that enhance world-building and characterization without the complexities of grammar or syntax. The video outlines methods for creating sounds using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) and suggests starting with root words to build a lexicon. It emphasizes consistency in word formation and how to incorporate cultural context. Resources for further learning are provided, with a promise of more in-depth exploration of comprehensive languages in future content.

Takeaways

• 😀 Conlangs are constructed languages, commonly used in science fiction and fantasy, like Tolkien's languages for Middle-earth or Klingon from Star Trek.
• 😀 There are two main types of conlangs: comprehensive languages, which are fully realized and usable (e.g., Sindarin, Klingon), and naming languages, which are simpler and more focused on world-building.
• 😀 Naming languages help create a sense of depth and culture in a fictional world, often focusing on key terms or names (e.g., Dothraki in Game of Thrones or Na'vi in Avatar).
• 😀 Comprehensive languages are more immersive, allowing characters to fully speak and interact in the language, whereas naming languages only require a few terms to support the world-building.
• 😀 To create a naming language, start by choosing the sounds you want it to have. This can be done by modifying existing languages or using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA).
• 😀 When modifying existing languages, be careful not to make it awkward for native speakers of the original languages you're drawing from.
• 😀 Using the IPA allows for more creative and unique sound combinations, although it’s important not to use every sound on the chart to maintain coherence.
• 😀 In building your lexicon, focus on root words and their modifications (prefixes/suffixes) to create new meanings, just like in English (e.g., 'aim' becomes 'aimless').
• 😀 Naming languages don't require complex grammar or syntax, and you can borrow scripts from existing languages, as seen in Dothraki.
• 😀 Consistency is key when creating a naming language—consider how the language evolved culturally and keep new word formations logical, such as borrowing terms or adapting existing ones.

Q & A

What is the difference between comprehensive languages and naming languages in conlang creation?

Comprehensive languages are fully realized, complete languages that you can study and speak fluently, such as Klingon or Dothraki. Naming languages, on the other hand, are smaller, often just a set of terms or phrases used for world-building and characterization without focusing on grammar or syntax.

Why might someone choose to create a naming language instead of a comprehensive language?

A naming language is suitable when you want to enhance the world-building and characterization of a fictional setting, but without needing to develop a full, complex language. It allows for a few key terms or phrases to create a sense of immersion without the need for extensive linguistic rules.

How did David J. Peterson contribute to the creation of the Dothraki language for the Game of Thrones series?

David J. Peterson expanded the original form of Dothraki created by George R. R. Martin by developing its grammar and vocabulary so that the actors could convincingly speak it on screen, making it a fully realized language for the show.

What are root words, and why are they important when creating a conlang?

Root words are fundamental terms in a language that cannot be broken down further. They serve as the foundation for creating more complex words by adding prefixes or suffixes. Root words are crucial for building a consistent lexicon in your conlang.

What is the IPA, and how does it help in creating a conlang?

The International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is a standardized list of all possible human speech sounds. It helps conlang creators choose sounds for their language that are unique and consistent, providing a structured approach to phonology.

Why should you not use every sound from the IPA when creating a language?

No existing language uses every sound from the IPA chart, and doing so would result in a confusing and impractical language. It’s best to select a manageable set of sounds that work well together.

How can culture influence the lexicon of a conlang?

The culture of the fictional people using the language should shape their lexicon. For example, if a culture has no horses, their language won’t have a word for them. This adds depth to the language and reinforces the cultural context of the world.

What should you consider when adding new words to a conlang?

When adding new words, consider how they fit with the root words, the cultural context, and the consistency of the language. New words should be logically constructed and may evolve based on cultural shifts or external influences like borrowed terms from other languages.

Do naming languages need their own writing system?

No, naming languages don’t necessarily need their own writing system. They can use the writing system of the language they are integrated with, as was done with Dothraki in the Game of Thrones series.

How can learning about existing languages help in creating a conlang?

Studying existing languages, including their phonetics, grammar, and cultural context, can provide a deeper understanding of how languages work. This knowledge can then be applied to create a more coherent and believable conlang.