Comprehensive Yuracaré-Spanish Dictionary Published to Preserve Ancient Bolivian Language

Decades of Dedication Culminate in Publication

After 25 years of dedicated work, a comprehensive Yuracaré-Spanish dictionary has been published in Bolivia, marking a significant milestone in the effort to preserve the ancient Yuracaré language. The reference book, which was officially released in September, is the most complete of its kind, offering more than 6,000 entries and, for the first time, a grammatical decoding of the language.

The project was spearheaded by French anthropologist Vincent Hintzel and Dutch ethnolinguist Rik van Gijn. They collaborated closely with four members of the Yuracaré community: Gerónimo Ballivián Asencio Chávez, Alina Flores, and Rufino Yabeta. The Yuracaré Educational Council also provided crucial support and contributions to the dictionary's development.

A Vital Tool for an Endangered Language

The Yuracaré language, spoken by approximately 900 individuals according to a 2024 census, is classified as endangered by UNESCO criteria. Speakers are primarily located in the tropical regions of Bolivia, specifically within the Cochabamba and Beni departments. The publication of this dictionary is a critical step in combating the decline of the language, which has seen a break in intergenerational transmission over the past 15 to 20 years, with younger generations increasingly favoring Spanish.

Unlike previous lexicographical works, which sometimes relied on biblical translations, this new dictionary incorporates 'ontological narratives of the Yuracaré,' reflecting the community's own cultural and mythological context. This approach ensures a more authentic and culturally relevant representation of the language.

Historical Context and Future Hopes

The Yuracaré people have a long history of resisting assimilation, settling in the border regions between Bolivia's mountain foothills and plains. Historical records show minimal contact with the Incas and limited inroads by Spanish evangelizing missions. The publication of this dictionary represents a new chapter in their story, providing a robust resource for language education and cultural revitalization.

While earlier versions of Yuracaré dictionaries exist, some dating back to the 19th century, the newly published work is celebrated by its creators as the definitive version due to its comprehensive nature and grammatical depth. It is hoped that this extensive resource will play a pivotal role in safeguarding the Yuracaré language for future generations and supporting mother-tongue education within the community.