bbc.com
Twins' Unique Language
Identical twins create and maintain their own language, Umeri, highlighting the unique bond between twins and the fascinating world of linguistics.
Swahili
United Kingdom
AfricaFamilyCommunicationLanguageLinguisticsTwins
Bbc News WorldUniversity Of California
Matthew YouldenMichael YouldenNancy SegalKaren ThorpeRoy Johannink
- What is the significance of Umeri to the twins?
- Umeri is not a secret language; rather, it represents the strong bond between the twin brothers. It's a testament to their unique childhood and continued close relationship.
- How common is it for twins to develop their own language?
- The Youlden twins' creation of Umeri is a fascinating example of the phenomenon of twin languages. While many twins develop unique communication methods, most lose them as they grow and learn the dominant language around them.
- How did the Youlden twins develop and refine their language?
- The twins' linguistic journey involved learning multiple languages, combining grammatical elements from various languages to form Umeri. They even attempted to create their own alphabet before settling on using the Latin alphabet.
- What is unique about the language spoken by the Youlden twins?
- Matthew and Michael Youlden, twin brothers, created their own language, Umeri, as children. They are the only two speakers and continue to use it today, enhancing and refining it over the years.
- What are the challenges and future prospects for the Youlden twins' language?
- The Youlden twins' story highlights the unique bond between twins and the remarkable ability of humans to create languages. Their use of Umeri continues to evolve as they incorporate new words and concepts from modern life.