IQALUIT - Standardizing some words across Inuit languages is key to easing communication between all Nunavummiut and strengthening the languages' use among youth.

Inuit Language Authority chairman Elijah Erkloo speaks on the standardization of the Inuit language during a symposium on the matter in Iqaluit from Feb. 7 to 11. The five-member committee is seeking common terms to be used all across the territory. - Jeanne Gagnon/NNSL photo

"It's not so much a standardized language that we're aiming for at this point," said Nunavut Languages Commissioner Alexina Kublu. "It is more a standardized terminology because the youths (using) English for terms we don't have words for is deemed to be one of the reasons why the Inuit language is weakening."

This process will not be done in a couple of months or years – it will take time, said Kublu.

"This is an ongoing project because new words are coming up all the time. I mean iPod is a new word," she said.

The Inuit Language Standardization Symposium held in Iqaluit from Feb. 7 to 11 discussed the current use of the writing system, issues associated with it and ways to improve communication through a standard writing system.

It is thought developing a word or expression in the Inuit language to describe a thing or concept from English, speakers will find it easier to follow discussions or read and understand documents. The goal is to make it easier to use the Inuit language, whatever the situation.

The five member -- one from Kivalliq, two each from Baffin and Kitikmeot – Inuit Language Committee is tasked to find an Inuit language word for English terms while ensuring Inuit language words can be translated into French, English and other languages.

Elijah Erkloo, chairman of the Inuit Uqausinginnik Taiguusiliuqtiit/Inuit Language Authority, said if you want to translate an English document, you may end up with 10 different dialects.

"It's very important for the government. If you go to court, it will become easier to have the same language which can be understood by everyone," he said.

He added he thinks more people will speak the language once the standardized terms are set up.

"Because when you have the same writing system, it becomes easier no matter where you are," he said.

Kublu said when no word or too many words exist in Inuktitut or Inuinnaqtun to describe something, people will tend to use the English corresponding word in conversation to ensure they understand each other.

One of the challenges identified is getting the standardized word eventually used in everyday life.

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