Language endangerment and the linguistic vitality of Miao in China: Cultural shifts and revitalisation strategies

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Date
2024-10-03
Open Access Location
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
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Publisher
Taylor and Francis Group
Rights
(c) 2024 The Author/s
CC BY-NC-ND 4.0
Abstract
This study applies ethnolinguistic vitality (EV) theory to analyse the diminishing proficiency and usage of the Miao language among its speakers in Guizhou, China. Forty-five Miao participated in the semi-structured interviews for this project. The study identified the languageā€™s endangered status characterised by low vitality, Mandarin dominance, declining proficiency, and economic-cultural shifts. Media influence exacerbated these threats, while negative perceptions of Miao linguistic capital and inadequate educational resources further endanger the language. Integrating EV theory, this study informs targeted revitalisation efforts crucial for ensuring the sustainability of the Miao language amidst socio-economic pressures favouring Mandarin dominance in China.
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Keywords
Ethnolinguistic vitality (EV), Miao Language, language endangerment, Language shift, Shifting attitudes
Citation
Li M, Croucher S, Shen L. (2024). Language endangerment and the linguistic vitality of Miao in China: Cultural shifts and revitalisation strategies. Journal of Multilingual and Multicultural Development. (pp. 1-16).
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