Phonetics and Phonology in Western Tamang

Details

2 November 2025/१६ कात्तिक २०८२ (आइतबार, दिउँसो ३ बजे)
Research Seminar Series
Phonetics and Phonology in Western Tamang
Pratigya Regmi, PhD Candidate, Department of Linguistics, Memorial University, Canada

Abstract:
This study investigates the phonetic and phonological features of Western Tamang, an under-documented Tibetan-Burman language spoken in the central Himalayan region of Nepal. The aim of this study is to provide a detailed analysis of segmental and suprasegmental contrasts, syllable structure, and phonotactic patterns as they manifest themselves in the language. To achieve this, the study adopts a phonetic-phonological approach, combining descriptive phonological analysis with acoustic measurements. This research will use data collected through phoneme substitution, word repetition, and perceptual tests, in addition to naturally spoken speech from native speakers. The study will provide a rigorous, data-driven analysis of Western Tamang phonology, clarify its sound patterns, support orthography development, and contribute to future research, documentation, and community collaboration. 

About the Speaker:
Pratigya Regmi is a PhD candidate in Linguistics at Memorial University, Canada, specializing in experimental and theoretical phonetics and phonology. Her research spans morphology, syntax, semantics, pragmatics, sociolinguistics, and ethnolinguistics, with a focus on language documentation, revitalization, and corpus development. She has worked with both under-documented and well-documented languages, applying advanced theoretical and methodological approaches. Beyond linguistics, Pratigya has led interdisciplinary projects in education, public health, ICT, agriculture and food safety, and coordinated research activities and partnerships with universities, I/NGOs, and government agencies. She also brings experience in academic writing, university-level teaching and translation.