an introduction to toki pona

the great majority of languages has around 500.000 words and english has over 700.000. however, there is a language, the simplest one, that has 137 core words: toki pona.

firstly, what even is a "toki pona"? toki pona (good/simple language, in toki pona) is a constructed language by the canadian linguist Sonja Lang. its words are simple, near-universal concepts in order to maximize expression from very few words.

this can be examplified with the expression "pana sona", which means "to teach" since "pana" means "to give" and sona, "knowledge". additionally, the word "wile" can mean both "to need" and "to want" which reinforces the minimalistic principles of toki pona.

now, despite it being a really nice language, why should someone learn it? here are some reasons:

  • think more clearly
  • simplify communication
  • free yourself from maximalism
  • brag about speaking a niche language

now, if i've managed to convince you to learn toki pona, here are some pretty good resources for learning this wonderful language online and other useful links:

i hope you give toki pona a chance!