Is Manipur a linguistic area?

Abstract

We expect linguistic areas in geographically delimited regions because, as has been seen universally, languages tend to influence each other when in contact. In linguistic areas we expect to see shared distinctive traits between some of the languages in the area. This paper reflects on why it is that Manipur (Northeast India), which hosts within its 22,347 square kilometers approximately 29 languages, does not exhibit a greater sharing of linguistic traits. This article discusses some distinctive key features between four representative languages of Manipur: Lamkang, Meitei, Tangkhul, and Thadou. Cross-language influence is limited due to dissimilar religious and socio-economic factors.