Abstract

This paper investigates lexical convergences between Gawri and Shina, two under-documented Dardic languages spoken in Northern Pakistan. While Dardic languages constitute a significant subgroup of the Indo-Aryan family, their internal relationships remain insufficiently explored (Morgenstierne, 1961; Rönnqvist, 2013). By focusing on Gawri and Shina, this study addresses a critical gap in comparative lexical analysis and contributes to broader debates on language contact, classification, and change in Central Eurasia’s mountainous borderlands.

Using a comparative qualitative approach, the research analyzes everyday semantic domains—kinship, body parts, nature, household objects, numbers, and basic verbs—to identify phonological, semantic, and morphological correspondences. Special attention is given to cognates, borrowings, and local innovations that illuminate historical connections and sociolinguistic influences (Kohistani, 2008; Jacquesson, 2004).

Preliminary findings suggest that Gawri and Shina share a substantial proportion of vocabulary, reflecting both shared ancestry and sustained contact, while also exhibiting divergences shaped by geography and community-specific developments. These results underscore the dynamic interplay between linguistic continuity and innovation in the region.

By situating lexical analysis within the broader context of cultural identity and historical memory, this study highlights the importance of documenting indigenous languages as repositories of collective heritage. It contributes to the conference theme by demonstrating how spaces (mountainous borderlands), societies (linguistic communities), and power (language preservation and identity politics) intersect in shaping Central Eurasia’s linguistic landscape.

Keywords

Lexicon, Dardic languages, Gawri, Shina, language contact, Northern Pakistan

Suggested References

• Morgenstierne, G. (1961). Dardic Languages. Oslo: Universitetsforlaget.

• Kohistani, R. (2008). Lexical Sharing of Shina Kohistani and Other Dardic Languages. Archive.org.

• Jacquesson, F. (2004). Les langues indo-iraniennes des Pamirs et de l’Hindou Kouch. Cahiers d’Asie centrale.

• Rönnqvist, H. (2013). Tense and Aspect Systems in Dardic Languages: A Comparative Study. Uppsala University.

• Grierson, G.A. (1919). Specimens of the Dardic or Piśācha Languages. Linguistic Survey of India.