Definition

Noun 1. An alternate historical name for the Evenki language: "Tunguz" refers to the Tungusic language spoken by the Evenki people, primarily in eastern Siberia. This term is now considered dated or archaic in linguistic and anthropological contexts, with "Evenki" being the preferred modern name for both the people and their language.

Usage

• The term "Tunguz" is primarily encountered in historical texts, older anthropological studies, or in discussions about the classification of Tungusic languages.
• In contemporary usage, the word "Evenki" is standard. Using "Tunguz" may be seen as outdated.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Early 20th-century explorers documented the customs and the "Tunguz" language of the nomadic tribes.
  • The word "Tunguz" appears in older classifications of the Tungusic language family.

Advanced Usage

• Historical/Ethnographic Context: The term is sometimes used to specify historical references or to discuss the evolution of ethnolinguistic terminology.
  • In his 18th-century notes, the Russian explorer referred to the local people as "Tunguz."

Variants and Related Words

• Evenki (n.): The modern and preferred name for the Tungusic people and their language.
• Tungusic (adj./n.): Pertaining to the language family that includes Evenki (Tunguz), Even, Manchu, and other languages. As a noun, it refers to the family itself.
  • Evenki is a Northern Tungusic language.

Synonyms

• Evenki (This is the direct modern synonym and should be used instead of "Tunguz" in most contexts.)

Notes on Meaning

• The term "Tunguz" is archaic. Its use today is largely historical or academic, relating to the study of older sources. For current references to the people, culture, or language, "Evenki" is the correct and respectful term.

Noun

1. the Tungusic language of the Evenki in eastern Siberia