Yucatan Language and Accent
June 19, 2009 by Sebastian S. · Comments
The Spanish spoken in the Yucatán is readily identifiable as different, even to non-native ears. It is heavily influenced by the Spanish accent and Yucatec Maya language, which is still spoken by a third of the population of the State of Yucatán, although mostly in smaller towns and villages.
The Mayan language is harshly melodic, filled with “sh” sounds (represented by the letter “x” in the Mayan language) and very full throated vowels.
Being enclosed by the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, and with poor land communication with the rest of Mexico, Yucatecan Spanish has also preserved many words that are no longer used in many other Spanish speaking areas of the world.
Also unique among Yucatecan speakers is the heavy use of diminutive language that shows affection towards even mundane objects. However, with the improvement in transportation and especially with the overwhelming presence of radio and TV, their isolation has eroded, and many outside elements of culture and language are now slowly but consistently permeating the culture.
Even if fewer younger Yucatecos are fluent in Mayan today, it is still the second language of the State. Many students now choose to learn a foreign language like English, which is taught in most schools.
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