Zulu language

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Bantu language of the Zulu people

Zulu

Pronunciation
Native to
Region	KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Free State
Ethnicity	Zulu people
Speakers	12 million
Language family	Niger-Congo
Early forms
Writing system
Official status
Regulated by

Zulu (isiZulu) is a Bantu language of the Nguni subgroup spoken by the Zulu people in South Africa. It is one of the eleven official languages of South Africa and is the most widely spoken home language in the country. Zulu is also spoken in Eswatini, Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique.

History

The Zulu language is part of the larger Nguni language group, which also includes Xhosa, Swati, and Ndebele. The language developed among the Zulu people, who are part of the larger Bantu migration that spread across Africa.

Phonology

Zulu is known for its use of click consonants, which are a distinctive feature of the language. There are three basic click sounds in Zulu: dental, lateral, and postalveolar. The language also has a rich system of vowels and consonants, with a tonal aspect that affects meaning.

Grammar

Zulu grammar is characterized by its use of noun classes, which are a common feature in Bantu languages. Each noun class has a specific prefix that affects the form of the verb and adjectives associated with the noun. The language also uses agglutination, where words are formed by combining morphemes in a linear sequence.

Writing System

Zulu uses the Latin alphabet, which was introduced by Christian missionaries in the 19th century. The orthography has been standardized, and the language is taught in schools and used in official documents.

Literature and Media

Zulu has a rich oral tradition, including folktales, proverbs, and praise poetry. In modern times, Zulu literature has expanded to include novels, plays, and poetry. The language is also used in various media, including radio, television, and newspapers.

Cultural Significance

The Zulu language is an integral part of the Zulu identity and culture. It is used in traditional ceremonies, music, and dance. The language also plays a crucial role in the preservation of Zulu heritage and history.

Related Pages

• Zulu people
• Nguni languages
• Bantu languages
• South Africa
• Xhosa language
• Swati language
• Ndebele language