Standard

SB

Solomon Islands

Summary

Official Name
Population
704,000
General Remarks
The Solomon Islands consist of 9 island provinces; the following island groupings are listed by size: Western, Guadalcanal, Malaita, Isabel, Choiseul, Makira Ulawa, Temotu, Rennell and Bellona, and Central
Principal Languages
English
Literacy Rate
84% (Roser and Ortiz-Ospina 2018)
International Conventions
CDE (1960), CSICH (2012)
General References
Dunn et al 2002, Ross 1988, Ross 2001, Ross 2005, Todd 1975, Tryon 1995, Tryon and Hackman 1983, Wurm 2007, Wurm and Hattori 1981
Language Counts
The number of established languages listed for Solomon Islands is 74. Of these, 72 are living and 2 are extinct. Of the living languages, 70 are indigenous and 2 are non-indigenous. Furthermore, 5 are institutional, 27 are developing, 25 are vigorous, 7 are in trouble, and 8 are dying. Also listed is 1 unestablished language.

Languages

’Are’are alu
Malaita province: central Malaita island, 2 areas; western tip, Guadalcanal island. Some in Honiara. Users: 17,900 (1999 SIL), increasing. Few monolinguals. Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Areare Autonym: ’Are’are Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Southern
Äiwoo nfl
Temotu province: Santa Cruz Islands, primarily the Reef islands: Fenualoa, Lomlom, Nibanga Nede, and Nibanga Temaa. Many villages scattered along Honiara and Santa Cruz north coast. Users: 8,400 (1999 SIL), increasing. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ayiwo, Aïwo, Gnivo, Lomlom, Naaude, Nifilole, Nivo, Reef Islands, Reefs Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Reefs-Santa Cruz
Amba utp
Temotu province: Utupua island, Aveta, Matembo, and Nembao villages. Users: 590 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Aba, Nembao, Utupua Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Utupua-Vanikoro, Utupua
Anuta aud
Temotu province: Anuta island. Users: 270 (1999 SIL). Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Anutan, Te Taranga Pakaanuta, te taranga paka-Anuta Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Remote Oceanic, Central Pacific, East Fijian-Polynesian, Polynesian, Nuclear, Samoic-Outlier, Futunic
Arosi aia
Makira-Ulawa province: northwest Makira island. Users: 6,750 (1999 SIL). Status: 4 (Educational). Autonym: Arosi Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, San Cristobal
Asumboa aua
Temotu province: Utupua island, Asumbuo village. Users: 10 (1999 SIL). Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Asubuo, Asumbua, Asumuo Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Utupua-Vanikoro, Utupua
Babatana baa
Choiseul province: east Choiseul island. Users: 7,070 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Central-Eastern Choiseul, East Choiseul, Mbambatana Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Choiseul
Baeggu bvd
Malaita province: north Malaita island. Users: 5,900 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Baegu, Mbaenggu Autonym: Baeggu Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Northern
Baelelea bvc
Malaita province: north Malaita island. Users: 8,800 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Mbaelelea Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Northern
Bauro bxa
Makira-Ulawa province: central Makira (San Cristobal) island. Users: 4,980 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Bwauro Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, San Cristobal
Bilua blb
Western province: Vella Lavella island. Users: 9,000 (Obata 2003). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Mbilua, Vella Lavella Autonym: Bilua Classification: Central Solomons
Birao brr
Guadalcanal province: east Guadalcanal island. Users: 5,900 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Mbirao Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Gela-Guadalcanal, Guadalcanal
Blablanga blp
Isabel province: Santa Isabel island, Maringe district, Hovukoilo and Popoheo villages; Ghove to Biluro on Hograno coast. Users: 1,770 (1999 SIL). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Blanga, Gema, Goi Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Santa Isabel, Central
Bughotu bgt
Isabel province: Santa Isabel island, southeast end from Suma to Horara; Furona island off Kia district northwest coast. Users: 4,050 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Bugota, Bugoto, Bugotu, Mahaga, Mbughotu Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Gela-Guadalcanal, Bughotu
Cheke Holo mrn
Isabel province: central Santa Isabel island, on Maringe side, Gnulahaghe village southeast to Kuma’ihaui; Kia district, Hograno coast villages; Gao-Bughotu region, scattered villages. Users: 10,800 (1999 SIL), increasing. 1,500 monolinguals. Status: 5* (Developing). Alternate Names: A’ara, Cheke Tahati, Kubonitu Autonym: Cheke Holo, Holo Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Santa Isabel, East
Chinese zho
Users: 1,000 in Solomon Islands. Status: Unestablished.
Dori’o dor
Malaita province: west central Malaita island. Users: 2,410 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kwarekwareo Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Southern
Duke nke
Western province: Kolombangara island. Users: 2,310 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kolombangara, Ndughore, Nduke Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, West
Engdewu ngr
Temotu province: Santa Cruz island, Mömwawë, Ulou, and Nagu villages. Users: 200 (Vaa 2013). Status: 7 (Shifting). Alternate Names: Nagu, Nanggu, Nangu Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Reefs-Santa Cruz
English eng
Users: 271,000 in Solomon Islands, all users. L1 users: 21,000 in Solomon Islands (2019). L2 users: 250,000 (2019). Status: 1 (National). De facto national language. Classification: Indo-European, Germanic, West, English
Fagani faf
Makira-Ulawa province: northwest Makira island. Users: 900 (1999 SIL). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Faghani Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, San Cristobal
Fataleka far
Malaita province: Malaita island. Users: 6,700 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Autonym: Fataleka Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Northern
Gao gga
Isabel province: central Isabel island, Tausese southeast to Floakora point, primarily in Poro. Users: 1,220 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Nggao Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Santa Isabel, East
Gela nlg
Central province: Gela and Florida islands, Guadalcanal (immigrants), Savo island. Users: 11,900 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Florida Islands, Nggela Autonym: Gela Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Gela-Guadalcanal, Gela
Ghanongga ghn
Western province: north Ranonga island. Users: 2,510 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ganoga, Ganongga, Kubokota, Kumbokota Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, West
Ghari gri
Guadalcanal province: Guadalcanal, west, northwest, and north central coast. Users: 12,100 (1999 SIL). 7,110 Ghari, 950 Gae, 3,020 Ndi, 490 Nginia, 550 Tandai-Nggaria. Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Gari, Sughu, Sugu, Tangarare, West Guadalcanal Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Gela-Guadalcanal, Guadalcanal
Gula’alaa gmb
Malaita province: Kwai, east Kwara’ae, and Ngongosila islands. Users: 1,570 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kwai, Ngongosila Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Northern
Hoava hoa
Western province: New Georgia island, North Marovo lagoon. Users: 460 (1999 SIL). Status: 6b (Threatened). Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, West
Kahua agw
Makira-Ulawa province: south Makira island. Users: 5,170 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Anganiwai, Anganiwei, Narihua, Wanoni Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, San Cristobal
Kazukuru kzk
Western province. Users: No known L1 speakers. The last speaker shifted to Roviana [rug] in the early 20th century (Dunn and Ross 2007). Status: 10 (Extinct). Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, West
Kiribati gil
Choiseul province: Rob Roy island; Western province: Gizo island, 1 area; Honiara, Guadalcanal. Users: 6,800 in Solomon Islands (2012 J. Leclerc). Status: 5 (Dispersed). Alternate Names: Gilbertese, Ikiribati Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Remote Oceanic, Micronesian, Micronesian Proper, Ikiribati
Kokota kkk
Isabel province: Santa Isabel, northeast coast, Ghoveo and Sisiga villages; Hurepelo southeast coast. Users: 1,200 (Palmer 2009). Status: 6b* (Threatened). Alternate Names: Ooe Kokota Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Santa Isabel, Central
Kusaghe ksg
Western province: north New Georgia island. Users: 1,230 (Davis 2003). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kusage, Kusaghe-Njela, Kushage Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, West
Kwaio kwd
Malaita province: central Malaita island. Users: 13,200 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Fataia, Koio, Welakau Autonym: Kwaio Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Northern
Kwara’ae kwf
Malaita province: central Malaita island. Users: 32,400 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Fiu, Kwaraqae Autonym: Kwara’ae Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Northern
Laghu lgb
Isabel province: Santa Isabel, Kia district, Baolo and Samasodu villages. Users: No known L1 speakers. The last speaker died or shifted to Zabana [kji] in 1984 (Palmer 2009). Status: 10 (Extinct). Alternate Names: Hoatana, Katova, Lagu Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Santa Isabel, West
Lau llu
Malaita province: northeast Malaita island. Users: 16,900 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Autonym: Lau Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Northern
Lavukaleve lvk
Central province: Russell islands. Users: 1,780 (1999 SIL), decreasing. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Laube, Laumbe, Russell Island Classification: Central Solomons
Lengo lgr
North and east central Guadalcanal. Users: 13,800 (1999 SIL). 13,600 Lengo and 160 Ghaimuta. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Doku, Ruavatu, Tadhimboko Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Gela-Guadalcanal, Gela
Longgu lgu
Guadalcanal: east coast, Bambasu, Longgu, Nangali, and Totongo villages. Users: 1,500 (Hill 2002). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Kaoka, Logu Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Longgu
Lovono vnk
Temotu province: Vanikolo island, Lale and Lavaka villages. Users: 4 (2012 A. François). Old people remember a few words (Wurm 2007). Ethnic population: 120 (Wurm 2007). Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Alavana, Alavano, Lavana, Vanikolo, Vanikoro, Vano Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Utupua-Vanikoro
Lungga lga
Western province: south Ranonga island. Users: 2,770 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Luga, Lunqa Autonym: Luqa Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, West
Malango mln
Guadalcanal province: central Guadalcanal Island. Users: 4,140 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Teha Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Gela-Guadalcanal, Guadalcanal
Marovo mvo
Western province: south New Georgia island, Marovo lagoon, Nggatokae, and Vangunu islands. Users: 8,090 (1999 SIL). Status: 5* (Developing). Autonym: Marovo Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, East
Mono mte
Western province: Treasury island, Mono; Shortland islands, Alo and Alu, Fauro island. Users: 2,940 (1999 SIL). 660 Mono, 2,270 Alu, 14 Fauro. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Alu, Mono-Alu Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Mono-Uruava
Nalögo nlz
Temotu province: south Santa Cruz island, Bibö, Nea, and Nooli villages. Users: 1,620 (2007 census), increasing. Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Nalrgo, Nea, Southern Santa Cruz Autonym: Nalögo Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Reefs-Santa Cruz
Natügu ntu
Temotu province: west Santa Cruz island, Graciosa Bay; some on north coast. Users: 4,280 (2007 census), increasing. Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Nambakaengö, Natqgu, Northern Santa Cruz, Santa Cruz Autonym: Natügu Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Reefs-Santa Cruz
Noipä npx
Temotu province: southwest Santa Cruz island, Noipä village. Users: 250 (2016 B. Boerger). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Noipx Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Reefs-Santa Cruz
Ontong Java ojv
Malaita province: Luangiua atoll, Lord Howe island; 210 km from Santa Isabel island. Users: 2,370 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Leuangiua, Lord Howe, Luaniua Autonym: Luangiua Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Remote Oceanic, Central Pacific, East Fijian-Polynesian, Polynesian, Nuclear, Samoic-Outlier, Ellicean
Oroha ora
Malaita province: Malaita island, near southern tip. Users: 38 (1999 SIL). Status: 7 (Shifting). Alternate Names: Mara Ma-Siki, Oraha Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Southern
Owa stn
Makira-Ulawa province: San Cristobal; Santa Anna and Santa Catalina islands. Users: 8,410 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Anganiwai, Anganiwei, Narihua, Santa Anna, Wanoni Autonym: Owa Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, San Cristobal
Pijin pis
Widespread. Users: 564,000, all users. L1 users: 34,000 (2012 J. Leclerc). L2 users: 530,000 (2019). Status: 3 (Wider communication). Originated on the sugar cane plantations in Queensland, Australia between 1863 and 1906. In 1904, at end of labor trade period, repatriated Solomon Islanders brought pidgin home. Widely spoken by majority of population. Alternate Names: Neo-Solomonic, Solomons Pidgin Autonym: Pijin Classification: Creole, English based, Pacific
Rennell-Bellona mnv
Rennell and Bellona province: Rennell and Bellona islands. Users: 4,390 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Rennell, Rennellese, Rennellese-Bellonese Autonym: Te hegeunga a Mugaba ma Mugiki Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Remote Oceanic, Central Pacific, East Fijian-Polynesian, Polynesian, Nuclear, Samoic-Outlier, Futunic
Ririo rri
Choiseul province: central Choiseul island, north third of northeast coast. Users: 18 (Wurm 2007). Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Choiseul
Roviana rug
Western province: north central New Georgia, Roviana and Vonavona lagoons. Users: 25,870, all users. L1 users: 9,870 (1999 SIL). L2 users: 16,000 (1987 UBS). Status: 3 (Wider communication). Lingua franca before 1880, especially for church purposes in the Western Province. Widely used as a trade language before the colonial era beginning in 1880. Alternate Names: Robiana, Rubiana, Ruviana Autonym: Roviana Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, West
Sa’a apb
Makira-Ulawa province: Ulawa and Three Sisters islands; Malaita province: southern Malaita island. Users: 11,500 (1999 SIL). 7,300 Sa’a, 3,300 Ulawa, and 920 Uki Ni Masi. Status: 4 (Educational). Alternate Names: Apae’aa, Saa, South Malaita Autonym: Sa’a Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Southern
Savosavo svs
Central province: Savo island. Users: 2,420 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Savo, Savo Island Classification: Central Solomons
Sikaiana sky
Malaita province: Sikaiana atoll. Users: 730 (1999 SIL). Status: 8a (Moribund). Alternate Names: Sikayana Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Remote Oceanic, Central Pacific, East Fijian-Polynesian, Polynesian, Nuclear, Samoic-Outlier, Ellicean
Simbo sbb
Western province: Simbo island. Users: 2,700 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Madeggusu, Mandeghughusu, Sibo Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, West
Solomon Islands Sign Language szs
Guadalcanal: Honiara and Aruligo (deaf village in San Isidro); scattered. Users: 3,000 (2021 DBS/DOOR/SIL). Estimated 2,000–4,000 deaf signers, assuming 0.3%–0.6% of total population. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: SISL Classification: Sign language, Deaf community sign language
Talise tlr
Guadalcanal province: Guadalcanal, southeast to southwest coast. Users: 12,500 (1999 SIL). 5,940 in Talise, 2,090 in Moli, 4,490 in Koo. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Talisi, Tolo Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Gela-Guadalcanal, Guadalcanal
Tanema tnx
Temotu province: Vanikolo island, Emua village. Users: 1 (2012 A. François). Ethnic population: 150 (Wurm 2007). Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Tetau, Tetawo Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Utupua-Vanikoro
Tanibili tbe
Temotu province: Utupua island, Tanibili village. Users: 15 (1999 SIL). Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Nyisunggu Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Utupua-Vanikoro, Utupua
Teanu tkw
Temotu province: Vanikolo island, Emua, Lale, Lavaka, and Puma villages. Users: 800 (2012 A. François). Status: 7 (Shifting). Alternate Names: Buma, Puma Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Temotu, Utupua-Vanikoro
Tikopia tkp
Makira-Ulawa province: Makira island; Temotu province: Tikopia island, settlements on Nendo and Vanikoro islands. Users: 1,800 (2012 A. François). Status: 5 (Developing). Autonym: Fakatikopia Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Remote Oceanic, Central Pacific, East Fijian-Polynesian, Polynesian, Nuclear, Samoic-Outlier, Futunic
To’abaita mlu
Malaita province: north Malaita island. Users: 12,600 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Malu, Malu’u, North Malaita, To’aba’ita, To’ambaita, Toabaita Autonym: Toqabaqita Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Northern
Touo tqu
Western province: south Rendova island. Users: 1,870 (1999 census). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Baniata, Lokuru, Mbaniata Classification: Central Solomons
Ughele uge
Western province: north Rendova island. Users: 1,200 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Ugele Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, West
Vaeakau-Taumako piv
Temotu province: widespread on Duff and Reef islands, including on Matema, Nifiloli, Nukapu, Nupani, Pileni, and Taumako. Users: 1,660 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Pileni, Pilheni Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Remote Oceanic, Central Pacific, East Fijian-Polynesian, Polynesian, Nuclear, Samoic-Outlier, Futunic
Vaghua tva
Choiseul province: Choiseul island, Tavula. Users: 1,960 (1999 SIL). Status: 6a (Vigorous). Alternate Names: Tavola, Tavula, Vagua Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Choiseul
Vangunu mpr
Western province: north Vangunu island, Bareke; southwest Vangunu island, Vangunu. Users: 910 (1999 SIL). 400 Bareke, 510 Vangunu. Status: 6a (Vigorous). Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, New Georgia, East
Varisi vrs
Choiseul province: northeast Choiseul island. Users: 5,160 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Varese Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Choiseul
Wala lgl
Malaita province: west central Malaita island. Users: 6,980 (1999 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Langalanga Autonym: Wala Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Central-Eastern Oceanic, Southeast Solomonic, Malaita-San Cristobal, Malaita, Northern
Zabana kji
Isabel province: Santa Isabel island, Samasodu southwest to Kia village, northeast to Baolo village. Users: 3,360 (2003 SIL). Status: 5 (Developing). Alternate Names: Jabana, Kia Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Santa Isabel, West
Zazao jaj
Isabel province: central Isabel island, Hograno coast, Kilokaka village. Users: 10 (1999 SIL). Status: 8b (Nearly extinct). Alternate Names: Jajao, Kilokaka Classification: Austronesian, Malayo-Polynesian, Central-Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Eastern Malayo-Polynesian, Oceanic, Western Oceanic, Meso Melanesian, New Ireland, South New Ireland-Northwest Solomonic, Santa Isabel, Central

Languages by Status

    English
    [eng] 1 (National). De facto national language. 271,000 in Solomon Islands, all users. L1 users: 21,000 in Solomon Islands (2019). L2 users: 250,000 (2019).
    Pijin
    [pis] 3 (Wider communication). Originated on the sugar cane plantations in Queensland, Australia between 1863 and 1906. In 1904, at end of labor trade period, repatriated Solomon Islanders brought pidgin home. Widely spoken by majority of population. 564,000, all users. L1 users: 34,000 (2012 J. Leclerc). L2 users: 530,000 (2019).
    Roviana
    [rug] 3 (Wider communication). Lingua franca before 1880, especially for church purposes in the Western Province. Widely used as a trade language before the colonial era beginning in 1880. 25,870, all users. L1 users: 9,870 (1999 SIL). L2 users: 16,000 (1987 UBS).
    Arosi
    [aia] 4 (Educational). 6,750 (1999 SIL).
    Sa’a
    [apb] 4 (Educational). 11,500 (1999 SIL). 7,300 Sa’a, 3,300 Ulawa, and 920 Uki Ni Masi.
    Kiribati
    [gil] 5 (Dispersed). 6,800 in Solomon Islands (2012 J. Leclerc).
    ’Are’are
    [alu] 5 (Developing). 17,900 (1999 SIL), increasing. Few monolinguals.
    Babatana
    [baa] 5 (Developing). 7,070 (1999 SIL).
    Baeggu
    [bvd] 5 (Developing). 5,900 (1999 SIL).
    Baelelea
    [bvc] 5 (Developing). 8,800 (1999 SIL).
    Bauro
    [bxa] 5 (Developing). 4,980 (1999 SIL).
    Bilua
    [blb] 5 (Developing). 9,000 (Obata 2003).
    Bughotu
    [bgt] 5 (Developing). 4,050 (1999 SIL).
    Cheke Holo
    [mrn] 5* (Developing). 10,800 (1999 SIL), increasing. 1,500 monolinguals.
    Fataleka
    [far] 5 (Developing). 6,700 (1999 SIL).
    Gela
    [nlg] 5 (Developing). 11,900 (1999 SIL).
    Ghari
    [gri] 5 (Developing). 12,100 (1999 SIL). 7,110 Ghari, 950 Gae, 3,020 Ndi, 490 Nginia, 550 Tandai-Nggaria.
    Kahua
    [agw] 5 (Developing). 5,170 (1999 SIL).
    Kwaio
    [kwd] 5 (Developing). 13,200 (1999 SIL).
    Kwara’ae
    [kwf] 5 (Developing). 32,400 (1999 SIL).
    Lau
    [llu] 5 (Developing). 16,900 (1999 SIL).
    Lungga
    [lga] 5 (Developing). 2,770 (1999 SIL).
    Marovo
    [mvo] 5* (Developing). 8,090 (1999 SIL).
    Nalögo
    [nlz] 5 (Developing). 1,620 (2007 census), increasing.
    Natügu
    [ntu] 5 (Developing). 4,280 (2007 census), increasing.
    Ontong Java
    [ojv] 5 (Developing). 2,370 (1999 SIL).
    Owa
    [stn] 5 (Developing). 8,410 (1999 SIL).
    Rennell-Bellona
    [mnv] 5 (Developing). 4,390 (1999 SIL).
    Tikopia
    [tkp] 5 (Developing). 1,800 (2012 A. François).
    Varisi
    [vrs] 5 (Developing). 5,160 (1999 SIL).
    Wala
    [lgl] 5 (Developing). 6,980 (1999 SIL).
    Zabana
    [kji] 5 (Developing). 3,360 (2003 SIL).
    Äiwoo
    [nfl] 6a (Vigorous). 8,400 (1999 SIL), increasing.
    Amba
    [utp] 6a (Vigorous). 590 (1999 SIL).
    Birao
    [brr] 6a (Vigorous). 5,900 (1999 SIL).
    Dori’o
    [dor] 6a (Vigorous). 2,410 (1999 SIL).
    Duke
    [nke] 6a (Vigorous). 2,310 (1999 SIL).
    Gao
    [gga] 6a (Vigorous). 1,220 (1999 SIL).
    Ghanongga
    [ghn] 6a (Vigorous). 2,510 (1999 SIL).
    Gula’alaa
    [gmb] 6a (Vigorous). 1,570 (1999 SIL).
    Kusaghe
    [ksg] 6a (Vigorous). 1,230 (Davis 2003).
    Lavukaleve
    [lvk] 6a (Vigorous). 1,780 (1999 SIL), decreasing.
    Lengo
    [lgr] 6a (Vigorous). 13,800 (1999 SIL). 13,600 Lengo and 160 Ghaimuta.
    Longgu
    [lgu] 6a (Vigorous). 1,500 (Hill 2002).
    Malango
    [mln] 6a (Vigorous). 4,140 (1999 SIL).
    Mono
    [mte] 6a (Vigorous). 2,940 (1999 SIL). 660 Mono, 2,270 Alu, 14 Fauro.
    Noipä
    [npx] 6a (Vigorous). 250 (2016 B. Boerger).
    Savosavo
    [svs] 6a (Vigorous). 2,420 (1999 SIL).
    Simbo
    [sbb] 6a (Vigorous). 2,700 (1999 SIL).
    Solomon Islands Sign Language
    [szs] 6a (Vigorous). 3,000 (2021 DBS/DOOR/SIL). Estimated 2,000–4,000 deaf signers, assuming 0.3%–0.6% of total population.
    Talise
    [tlr] 6a (Vigorous). 12,500 (1999 SIL). 5,940 in Talise, 2,090 in Moli, 4,490 in Koo.
    To’abaita
    [mlu] 6a (Vigorous). 12,600 (1999 SIL).
    Touo
    [tqu] 6a (Vigorous). 1,870 (1999 census).
    Ughele
    [uge] 6a (Vigorous). 1,200 (1999 SIL).
    Vaeakau-Taumako
    [piv] 6a (Vigorous). 1,660 (1999 SIL).
    Vaghua
    [tva] 6a (Vigorous). 1,960 (1999 SIL).
    Vangunu
    [mpr] 6a (Vigorous). 910 (1999 SIL). 400 Bareke, 510 Vangunu.
    Blablanga
    [blp] 6b* (Threatened). 1,770 (1999 SIL).
    Fagani
    [faf] 6b* (Threatened). 900 (1999 SIL).
    Hoava
    [hoa] 6b (Threatened). 460 (1999 SIL).
    Kokota
    [kkk] 6b* (Threatened). 1,200 (Palmer 2009).
    Engdewu
    [ngr] 7 (Shifting). 200 (Vaa 2013).
    Oroha
    [ora] 7 (Shifting). 38 (1999 SIL).
    Teanu
    [tkw] 7 (Shifting). 800 (2012 A. François).
    Sikaiana
    [sky] 8a (Moribund). 730 (1999 SIL).
    Anuta
    [aud] 8b (Nearly extinct). 270 (1999 SIL).
    Asumboa
    [aua] 8b (Nearly extinct). 10 (1999 SIL).
    Lovono
    [vnk] 8b (Nearly extinct). 4 (2012 A. François). Old people remember a few words (Wurm 2007). Ethnic population: 120 (Wurm 2007).
    Ririo
    [rri] 8b (Nearly extinct). 18 (Wurm 2007).
    Tanema
    [tnx] 8b (Nearly extinct). 1 (2012 A. François). Ethnic population: 150 (Wurm 2007).
    Tanibili
    [tbe] 8b (Nearly extinct). 15 (1999 SIL).
    Zazao
    [jaj] 8b (Nearly extinct). 10 (1999 SIL).
    Kazukuru
    [kzk] 10 (Extinct). No known L1 speakers. The last speaker shifted to Roviana [rug] in the early 20th century (Dunn and Ross 2007).
    Laghu
    [lgb] 10 (Extinct). No known L1 speakers. The last speaker died or shifted to Zabana [kji] in 1984 (Palmer 2009).
    Chinese
    [zho] Unestablished. 1,000 in Solomon Islands.

Maps

  • Solomon Islands

Graphs

  • Language Vitality Profile

  • Language Status Profile

Resources

  • Each Ethnologue country digest is a licensed product with restricted terms of use. Before downloading the product, you must agree to the following terms:

    • This is a license for individual use. Just as with a conventionally published book, it is a violation of copyright to make a copy and give it to others.
    • You may not redistribute this work in any form, including ingesting the contents into a database that is shared with others or posting it on a web site (whether public or private).

    To inquire about permission for reuse or redistribution, please use the Contact Us form in the footer.