E | Ethnologue

A language of China

Ai Hua, E Hwen, E Xwen, Ea, Eahua, Ei, Kjang E, “Wuse Hua” (pej.), “Wusehua” (pej.)

7,000 (Shearer and Sun 2017).

Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region: Rongshui Hmong autonomous county, Yongle district, Simo, Xiatan, Xinglong (Xingyou) and other villages; Luocheng Mulam autonomous county border areas.

Language Status

6b* (Threatened). Language of recognized nationality: Zhuang.

Classification

Mixed language

Dialects

A mixed language, with large amounts of Northern Pinghua [cnp] (Tinguai variety) and Guiliu Hua (a southwest Mandarin [cmn] dialect) vocabulary, tone category, voice quality, and some word structure. The grammar has been more resistant to Chinese influence. Chinese scholars consider E a mixture of Northern Zhuang languages, Mulam [mlm], Dong [doc] and Chinese.

Typology

SVO; tonal.

Language Use

Also use Mandarin Chinese [cmn], specifically the Guiliu dialect. Also use Yue Chinese [yue].

Language Development

Grammar.

Language Resources

OLAC resources in and about E

Writing

Unwritten [Qaax].

Other Comments

Northern Zhuang languages are not used. Traditional religion.