Sage-Tips

What is Elvish script based on?

Tolkien’s Elvish languages were based largely on Finnish and Welsh. We explore how language helps us make sense of a changing world.

Is the Elvish language in Lord of the Rings real?

Middle Earth and the “Lord of the Rings” epics were created around his constructed languages. Basically, he invented words and needed speakers. These languages are both Elvish in origin: Quenya and Sindarin. When he died, Tolkien left behind a large number of unpublished works, many of which are still being studied.

Can you lie in Elvish?

Since Tolkien, others have invented Elvish languages in their own fiction. One cannot lie in the Ancient Language and is bound by what one says in it.

What is the difference between Tengwar and Quenya?

The word Tengwar is Quenya for “letters”; the corresponding singular is tengwarr, “letter.”

What is the difference between Sindarin and Quenya?

Sindarin is the language usually referred to as the Elf-Tongue or Elven-Tongue in The Lord of the Rings. When the Quenya-speaking Noldor returned to Middle-earth, they adopted the Sindarin language. Sindarin is said to be more changeful than Quenya, and there were during the First Age a number of regional dialects.

What does Thorin say in khuzdul?

The first insult Thorin makes to Thranduil in neo-khuzdul is “Imrid amrâd ursul!” which is “Die a death of flames!” (lit: “Die a fiery death”). “Ursul” means “fiery” and in typical khuzdul (semitic) fashion it is placed after the noun. This phrase can also be found on page 97 in the Weta AUJ: Chronicles II.

Did Tolkien create dwarvish?

Aulëan was named from the Dwarvish tradition that it had been devised by Aulë the Smith, the Vala who created the Dwarves….Internal history.

Baruk Khazâd! Khazâd ai-mênu!	“Axes of the Dwarves! The Dwarves are upon you!”
Balin Fundinul uzbad Khazad-dûmu	“Balin son of Fundin, lord of Moria”