Notes on Luma, a Southern Ngwi Language in Laos

Abstract

This paper provides a geographic, ethnographic, and linguistic background on Luma, a lesser-known language belonging to the Akoid subgroup of Southern Lolo/Ngwi in Phongsaly Province, Lao PDR. Luma has two dialects, Luma Eushi /əsʲi/ and Luma Proper, which is also called Luma Pala. Suggestions for further research on phonology, grammar, historical-comparative studies and classification are included.