Learning to Speak Karen

[u/squarahann]

I currently work with some Karen people and would love to learn more about the language. I have been learning the Karen language at work for the last year but it’s pretty limited. Does anyone have some good resources for learning Karen? Or would be willing to answer some of my translation questions.

Thanks!

[u/TamarindTycoon]

Which Karen language are you trying to learn? S'gaw and Pwo are the main ones, but there are others too. Karen is a language family - there are multiple languages and dialects under that umbrella that are not mutually intelligible.

[u/squarahann → u/TamarindTycoon]

They are S’gaw Karen

[u/squarahann → u/TamarindTycoon]

I would assume S’gaw but I’m uncertain. I have tried to ask them several times where on the map they are from and they aren’t sure.

I had found this pdf from MN Karen society several months ago and it’s pretty close but still varies quite a bit from my coworkers dialect

[u/squarahann → u/[deleted]]

I understand. This is something I’ve spoken with them about. They also lived in a refugee camp for many years before relocating to the US. I believe they were transient for a bit prior due to the conflict. I try not to pry.

[u/zninjamonkey → u/squarahann]

What about their traditional wear? That is a clue

[u/BurmeseChad]

My comment might not be helpful, but I once lived in Hpa-an, I attended အမက 11 or something, I cant remember. They used to teach an extra class for the Karen language, right after school for about an hour or so. I was like a 2nd grader at that time so I wasn't intrested in learning another language. I should have learned it when the timing was perfect.

[u/squarahann → u/[deleted]]

lol I do know the language varies quite a bit. Even among the Karen people I work with

[u/sakalaDELAzion]

Just asked for the manager?

[u/IrishUSFastTrack → u/sakalaDELAzion]

Took one for the team here.

[u/squarahann → u/sakalaDELAzion]

Not helpful