Kabyle

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A language of Algeria

ISO 639-3
kab
Alternate Names
Amazigh, Tamazight, Taqbaylit
Population

5,000,000 in Algeria (2012). Estimates by some sources are up to 6,000,000 in Algeria (1998). Population total all countries: 5,586,000.

Location

Grande Kabylie mountain range, west Kabylia. Lesser Kabyle in Aokas area. Also in Belgium, France.

Language Maps
Language Status

5 (Developing). Statutory language of national identity (2002, Constitutional Revision, Law No. 02-03).

Classification
Afro-Asiatic, Berber, Northern, Kabyle
Dialects

Greater Kabyle, Lesser Kabyle (Tasahlit). Lesser Kabyle (Tasahlit) may be a separate language.

Language Use

Home, market. Positive attitudes. Men may also use French [fra] and Arabic in trade and correspondence.

Language Development
New media. Bible: 2011.
Writing
Latin script, primary usage. Tifinagh (Berber) script, symbolic use only.
Other Comments

Kabyle reported by some sources to derive from the Arabic word for tribesman. Patrilineal and patrilocal. Muslim, Christian.