Contrasting initial consonants in monosyllabic words in Stiêng and Khmer languages

Abstract

Stiêng and Khmer are languages of 2 ethnic groups out of 54 ethnic minorities in Vietnam. They both belong to the Mon-Khmer branch of the Austroasiatic language family, and therefore have certain  similarities and differences. In Binh Phuoc province where a lot of Stiêng people are living, the Stiêng language is widely used in families. Besides, the location is close to the border with Cambodia, so Khmer is also quite popular. Because of this geographical feature, it becomes necessary to identify the similarities and differences in pronunciation between Stiêng and Khmer. On the one hand, forming a repository of research materials on ethnic languages; on the other hand, providing materials for teachers and learners of Stiêng or Khmer. In this article, the author focuses on comparing and contrasting the initial consonants in monosyllable words of Stiêng and Khmer.