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Macro-Pano-Tacanan languages

Also known as: Pano-Tacanan languages, Panoan languages

Quick Summary

The Macro-Pano-Tacanan languages are a linguistic group more distantly related than a stock, comprising about 30 languages, many of which are still spoken. These languages are found in two distinct regions: lowland eastern Peru and adjacent parts of Brazil, as well as lowland western Bolivia. A separate, nearly extinct group of these languages exists in southern Patagonia and Tierra del Fuego.1

The Macro-Pano-Tacanan group is considered one of the most significant language families in South America, alongside others like Macro-Chibchan and Arawakan. While precise classification remains challenging, these languages represent a distinct linguistic lineage within the diverse tapestry of South American indigenous languages.123

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