Alternate Names: Baheng, Bahengmai, Man Pa Seng, Meo Lai, Pa Hng, Pa Ngng, Pa Then, Paheng, Tóng
Dialects: Northern Pa-Hng, Southern Pa-Hng.
Status Notes: Language of recognized nationality: Yao.
Genealogy:
Demographics: 26,800 in China (McConnell 1995). 45,000 total ethnic population in China and Vietnam (Bradley 2007). Population total all countries: 33,610. 10,000 monolinguals. Ethnic population: 26,800.
Language Use: Vigorous. All domains. Positive attitudes. Also use Hmong Njua [hnj] (Bradley 2007). Also use Mandarin Chinese [cmn] (Bradley 2007). Also use Dong [doc] (Bradley 2007).
Language Development: Grammar.
Typology: SVO; uvular onsets; no nasal-final syllables but has nasalized vowels.
Nation of Origin: China
Other Comments: Official ethnic community in Viet Nam, although the variety spoken there may be a distinct language. Daoist.