Syllabary

usgb/ˈsɪləberi/
noun

A set of written symbols that represent syllables, which can be combined to spell out words.

Cherokee is a language that uses a syllabary, not an alphabet.
Visual representation of "syllabary" - A set of written symbols that represent syllables, which can be combined to spell out words.

Often appears as...

  • cherokee syllabary
  • kana syllabary
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "syllabary"
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Writing Systems

Understand that a syllabary represents speech sounds differently than alphabets which use individual letters.

Illustration for Writing Systems
In a syllabary like Japan's hiragana, each symbol stands for a whole syllable, not just a single sound.
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Distinct Symbols

Each symbol in a syllabary is unique and represents a distinct syllable sound.

Illustration for Distinct Symbols
The ‘ka’ in the Japanese kana syllabary is always represented by the same symbol.
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Cultural Specificity

A syllabary may be tied to a specific language and culture, impacting its use and recognition.

Illustration for Cultural Specificity
The Cherokee syllabary is specific to the Cherokee language, which influences its cultural significance.
Visual representation of the word "Syllabary"

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