When learning a new language, we often assume that fundamental concepts like left and right exist in all languages. However, some languages do not use these directional terms at all. Instead, they rely on absolute spatial orientation, such as cardinal directions (north, south, east, and west) or landmark-based navigation. This unique way of thinking affects how speakers perceive space and movement in the world.
Why Do Some Languages Lack ‘Left’ and ‘Right’?
Languages that lack left-right distinctions typically come from cultures where navigation depends on environmental landmarks rather than body-based references. These languages often:
- Prioritize cardinal directions (north, south, east, west) over relative positioning.
- Use landscape-based cues (e.g., uphill/downhill, riverward/inland).
- Reflect a worldview where orientation is fixed rather than relative to the speaker’s position.
Examples of Languages Without ‘Left’ or ‘Right’
1. Guugu Yimithirr (Australia) 🇦🇺
- Spoken by an Aboriginal community in Queensland, Australia.
- Uses absolute directions instead of left or right.
- Example: Instead of “your left hand,” a speaker might say “your northwest hand.”
2. Tzeltal (Mexico) 🇲🇽
- A Mayan language spoken in southern Mexico.
- Directions are based on geographical elevation.
- Example: Instead of left/right, speakers use “uphill” (ajal) and “downhill” (alan).
3. Hai//om (Namibia) 🇳🇦
- A Khoisan language spoken by indigenous groups in Namibia.
- Directions rely on landmarks and natural surroundings.
- Example: Instead of “turn left,” speakers might say “turn toward the mountains.”
4. Balinese (Indonesia) 🇮🇩
- Uses a spatial system called kaja-kelod, meaning toward the mountain (kaja) and toward the sea (kelod).
- Example: Instead of left/right, people in Bali give directions based on their proximity to Mount Agung (a sacred mountain) or the ocean.
How Does This Affect Perception?
Speakers of these languages develop stronger spatial awareness because they must constantly keep track of their absolute orientation. Studies show that:
- They have a better sense of direction.
- They can navigate unfamiliar terrain more easily.
- They think about space in a more fixed and universal way rather than relative to their bodies.
Q&A
Q1: Why do some languages use cardinal directions instead of left and right?
Cultures that rely on nature for navigation, such as nomadic or seafaring societies, often develop absolute directional systems. These help them navigate large areas without relying on body-relative terms that change depending on the speaker’s position.
Q2: Do speakers of these languages ever get confused without left and right?
Surprisingly, no! Because they are trained from childhood to orient themselves using absolute directions, their sense of space is incredibly strong. Studies show that they often outperform English speakers in navigation tasks.
Q3: Would it be possible for English speakers to learn to think this way?
Yes, but it takes practice! Travelers who spend time in such cultures often learn to navigate using cardinal directions instead of left/right. Developing this skill requires constant environmental awareness.
Q4: Are there any disadvantages to not having left and right?
One challenge is that cardinal directions require more situational awareness. For example, in an indoor setting without clear landmarks, absolute direction users may need to step outside or mentally visualize their surroundings before giving directions.
Q5: Can modern technology impact these language systems?
Yes! GPS and urbanization are influencing these languages. Younger generations in some of these cultures are starting to adopt left-right terminology, especially in cities where cardinal directions are harder to use.
Final Thoughts
The way we talk about direction influences how we think about space. While English and many other languages rely on left and right, some cultures perceive orientation in absolute terms. This difference in linguistic structure reveals how language shapes our worldview and cognitive abilities.