Foreword

By Dr. David Buhril
Secretary, Sinlung Academy of Letters

There is a saying that a dictionary-maker, unless he is a monster of omniscience, must deal with a great many matters of which he has no firsthand knowledge. That he has been guilty of errors and omissions in some of these he will learn soon after publication, sometimes with gratitude to his enlightener, sometimes otherwise. The author, Dr. John H. Pulamte, indeed, is not a monster of omniscience too. However, this dictionary can be considered a quest in that aspect. As a dictionary, and not as an encyclopedia, the uses of words and phrases as such are its subject matter, and it is concerned with giving information about the things for which those words and phrases stand only so far as correct use of the words depends upon knowledge of the things. It is never easy when it comes to Hmar language.

This dictionary makes evident that Hmar language has been greatly influenced by many other languages, which is an inevitable course for any dialect or languages. This assimilation or import is not a result of accident. Assimilation of foreign language as ours is already common in the face of progresses and technological advancements, while many of our phrases and idioms are negotiating the frontiers of irrelevance, particularly with the new generation.

While saying that, Dr. Pulamte significantly redraws the significance of many words, phrases and idioms by shedding new light in its usage and meanings in this dictionary. Many similar Hmar words have different senses, which often makes the definition obscure, if not unconvincing until exemplified. Dr. Pulamte has established the sense of the definition by appealing not only to other external authorities or sources, but to the reader’s own consciousness. In doing so, the words, or senses of words given are meant to be current.

Sinlung Academy of Letters is proud to be a part of this constructive project, which it will continue to do so in all necessary endeavors with this dictionary. This dictionary will immensely help not only Hmar readers but also anyone who wanted to learn or improve their Hmar. One will definitely realize its abundance, beauty and importance on using it.