Lecture Notes: Click Languages of the Bushmen

Overview

• The Bushmen are known for using unique click languages.
• Click languages involve distinct sounds made with the mouth and are an integral part of their communication.

Examples of Click Sounds

1. Dental Click (Represented as 'c')

• Sound Description: Click made by touching the upper teeth.
• Meaning: Used to express tasting or eating anything.

2. Lateral Click (Represented as 'x')

• Sound Description: Made by placing the tongue on the side of the mouth.
• Expression: Often associated with sounds like those made by a frog or twin red horses.

3. Alveolar Click (Represented as 'Q')

• Sound Description: Tongue placed on the palate and forced down, making a skunk-like sound.
• Meaning: Similar to knocking on a door ("knock knock"), and it conveys gratitude or thank you.

Cultural Connection

• The Zulu people have been mentioned as friends of the Bushmen, indicating cultural exchanges and mutual understanding.