Lao

Lao, the official language of Laos, formerly known as the Land of the Million Elephants, is phonemic, efficient, and easy to learn yet rich in expression. Learners will uncover its culture, literature, and mysteries, unrevealed to the world, while also serving as a national lingua franca. It acts as a fascinating bridge language facilitating communication among approximately 48 diverse ethnic groups. Tracing its roots back to the Tai languages spoken in South China, northern Vietnam, and northeast Thailand (known as Isan), the Lao language’s alphabet evolved from the ancient Khmer script in the 14th century. It incorporated Pali and Sanskrit terms with the arrival of Buddhism, the country’s religion, directed by King Fa Ngoume in the same century, significantly enriching the language in various fields. Lao boasts expressions reflecting nuanced levels of respect and intimacy between speakers of different social statuses.