Cebuano

A language of Philippines

ISO 639-3

Alternate Names

Bisaya, Sebuano, Sugbuanon, Sugbuhanon, Visayan

Autonym

Binisaya

Population

15,900,000 in Philippines (2005 UNSD). Total users in all countries: 15,942,480.

Location

Widespread; Bicol region: south Masbate province; parts of Mindanao; throughout the Visayas regions.

Language Status

3 (Wider communication). Statutory language of provincial identity in Cebu Province, 4 other areas (1991, ACFLC Section 3(f)).

Classification

Dialects

Cebu, Boholano (Boholang), Leyte, Mindanao Visayan. Boholano sometimes considered a separate language.

Typology

VSO; noun head final; tense and aspect; 16 consonants, 3 vowels, 4 diphthongs; non-tonal; free stress; inclusive/exclusive pronouns.

Language Use

Also use Bolinao [smk]. Used as L2 by Ata [atm], Butuanon [btw], Central Sama [sml], Central Subanen [syb], Chavacano [cbk], Cotabato Manobo [mta], Davawenyo [daw], Eskayan [esy], Giangan [bgi], Higaonon [mba], Ilianen Manobo [mbi], Inabaknon [abx], Kagan Kalagan [kll], Kalagan [kqe], Kamayo [kyk], Kinamiging Manobo [mkx], Kolibugan Subanon [skn], Koronadal Blaan [bpr], Mandaya [mry], Matigsalug Manobo [mbt], Northern Subanen [stb], Obo Manobo [obo], Porohanon [prh], Rajah Kabunsuwan Manobo [mqk], Sangil [snl], Sarangani Blaan [bps], Southern Subanen [laa], Surigaonon [sgd], Tagakaulo [klg], Tandaganon [tgn].

Language Development

Literature. Dictionary. Grammar. Bible: 1917–1981.

Language Resources

Writing

Braille script [Brai]. Latin script [Latn], primary usage.

Other Comments

Christian.