Lingua geral meaning

Lingua geral is a common language used for communication between speakers of different native languages.


Lingua geral definitions

Word backwards augnil lareg
Part of speech "lingua geral" is a noun phrase.
Syllabic division lin-gua ge-ral
Plural The plural of the word "lingua geral" is "linguas gerais".
Total letters 11
Vogais (4) i,u,a,e
Consonants (4) l,n,g,r

Lingua Geral: An Overview

Lingua Geral, also known as Língua Geral Amazônica, was a trade language used in the Amazon region during the colonial period. It was a contact language that emerged as a means of communication between different indigenous groups and European colonizers.

History and Development

The origins of Lingua Geral can be traced back to the 16th century when Portuguese explorers first arrived in Brazil. As trade and interaction increased between Europeans and indigenous peoples, there was a need for a common language to facilitate communication. Lingua Geral emerged as a result of this cultural exchange.

Features of Lingua Geral

Lingua Geral was a simplified language that incorporated elements from various indigenous languages as well as Portuguese. It was primarily used for trading purposes and had a basic vocabulary that focused on items of trade such as food, animals, and tools. The language was characterized by its flexibility and adaptability, allowing for easy communication between different groups.

Legacy and Influence

Although Lingua Geral is no longer widely spoken today, it played a significant role in the history of the Amazon region. The language helped to facilitate communication and cultural exchange between different groups, laying the groundwork for future interactions. Its legacy can still be seen in the linguistic diversity of the region.

The Revival of Lingua Geral

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in reviving and preserving Lingua Geral as part of efforts to safeguard indigenous languages and cultural heritage. Organizations and researchers are working to document and study the language in order to ensure that it is not lost to history.

In Conclusion

Lingua Geral is a fascinating example of a contact language that emerged from cultural exchange and interaction. Its history, features, and legacy provide valuable insights into the complex dynamics of communication in the Amazon region during the colonial period. By studying and preserving languages like Lingua Geral, we can gain a deeper understanding of the diverse linguistic landscape of the world.


Lingua geral Examples

  1. The indigenous tribes in Brazil historically spoke a form of lingua geral to communicate with each other.
  2. The lingua geral of the Inca Empire played a significant role in facilitating communication among diverse ethnic groups.
  3. Portuguese settlers in the Amazon region often used lingua geral as a common language with the indigenous populations.
  4. During colonial times, lingua geral was sometimes used as a means of trade and commerce between different cultural groups.
  5. The Jesuit missionaries played a key role in promoting the use of lingua geral as a tool for evangelization.
  6. The lingua geral of the Tupi people influenced the development of modern Brazilian Portuguese.
  7. In certain regions of South America, lingua geral continues to be spoken as a heritage language by some communities.
  8. Anthropologists study the historical significance of lingua geral in understanding pre-colonial communication patterns.
  9. The linguistic diversity of the Amazon basin highlights the importance of lingua geral as a unifying language.
  10. Modern linguists continue to research the role of lingua geral in shaping cultural identities and exchange in Latin America.


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  • Updated 26/04/2024 - 04:28:47