Holding and practising Yolŋu concepts of märr and ŋayaŋu in Northern Australia

Australian Review of Applied Linguistics 2026 Open access

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Authors: Brenda Muthamuluwuy, Gawura Waṉambi, Emily F. Armstrong, Yasunori Hayashi
DOI: 10.1075/aral.25049.hay
Cited by: 1
References: 7

Abstract

Abstract This paper will reflect on experiences of sharing and learning Yolŋu dhäruk (words, utterances, language) of East Arnhem Land in university education programs and community-based research. In particular we will attend to the concepts of märr and ŋayaŋu — inner feelings that are expressed in how we behave and interact. We elaborate how märr and ŋayaŋu are held and practiced by the traditional owners of Yolŋu dhäruk . Enactment of märr and ŋayaŋu can invigorate distinct ways of being and knowing Yolŋu dhäruk and express care for people and places in celebrating intergenerational knowledge transfer.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Indigenous Health Education and Rights Australian Indigenous Culture and History Indigenous and Place-Based Education

Publication details

Journal / source
Australian Review of Applied Linguistics
Publisher
John Benjamins Publishing Company
Volume
49
Issue
2
Pages
168–190
Publication date
15 January 2026
Language
EN