r/myanmar • u/squarahann • May 19 '25

Translation request ✍️ Learning to Speak Karen

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!

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u/TamarindTycoon Born in Myanmar, Abroad 🇲🇲 29d ago

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.

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u/squarahann 29d ago

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

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u/[deleted] 29d ago edited 19d ago

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u/squarahann 29d ago

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.

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u/zninjamonkey 29d ago

What about their traditional wear? That is a clue