The Cambridge Introduction to Applied Linguistics

Estimates vary, but it is generally accepted that there are 5,000 to 6,500 languages spoken in the world today (1,900 to 2,500 just in Africa). Over half of the world’s languages will disappear by 2050, however, meaning that over half of the world’s languages are presently endangered (Nettle & Romaine, 2000). By the end of the century it is predicted that over 80 percent of the world’s languages will be gone (Krauss, 1992). Clearly if we want to record languages before they die, let alone encourage their survival through a revitalization program, the work is urgent.