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Doogh Qinag

Holikachuk language

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About Doogh Qinag

Holikachuk is the traditional language of the former village of the same name. In the 1960s, residents of Holikachuk moved to Grayling, where some speakers lived until very recently. Probably the last fluent first language speakers of Holikachuk, Wilson “Tiny” Deacon and Mary Deacon, passed away in 2012 and 2023, respectively.

 

Holikachuk is an intermediary between Koyukon and Deg Xinag. Although typologically more similar to Koyukon, the language was often in close contact with Deg Xinag, and many learned it as a second language.

Phrases

Etla, s'coy.

Hello, my grandchild.

Da'ent'a?

How are you?

Xaledz estlan.

I'm good.

Ama estlan.

I'm sick.

Dzanh gitay nizune.

Very nice day. 

Ndadz ni'ooz?

What is your name?

S'ooze Elizabeth.

My name is Elizabeth.

Distsan.

I'm hungry.

Be quiet (strong sentiment, like shut up)

I hope you are well.

Dalik.

Dimalo xaledz

enlan.

Nqah esta.

I love you (said to significant other).

Dogadinh.

Thank you.

Dimalo s'kinaq xinishayh.

I wish I could speak my language.

Dant'anh?

What are you doing?

Dalik.

Dimalo xaledz

enlan.

Resources

Abstract Background

Dictionaries

Dry Woods

Online Courses & Apps

Sunset Skies

Other Resources

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