Pyen

A language of Myanmar

ISO 639-3

Alternate Names

Hpyin

Population

700 (2011).

Location

East Shan State, Mong Yawng area. 2 villages.

Language Status

6a (Vigorous).

Classification

Dialects

Similar to Phunoi [pho], Bisu [bzi], and Mpi [mpz]. Lexical similarity: 36% with Hani [hni], 32% with Lahu, 31% with Lisu [lis].

Typology

SVO; simple syllable structure; syllables may be closed by stop or nasal; modifiers follow heads; loanwords from Dai and Chinese; 3 tones

Language Use

Small population but vigorous use. All domains. All ages. Positive attitudes. Also use Shan [shn] or Lahu [lhu].

Language Development

Some literacy classes. Grammar. Bible portions: 2011.

Language Resources

Writing

Latin script.

Other Comments

Christian.