Dictionary User Guide

The Cowlitz Coast Salish language is very different from English. An entire English sentence can translate to a single Cowlitz word, made up of many different pieces. To express a specific idea, you will have to arrange these parts in a particular way.

In the dictionary, only one form can be listed as the main headword. Verb entries generally take the same form as one another, and noun entries generally take the same form as one another. Below are examples of typical dictionary entry forms and how you would use the entry to express various ideas.

Finally, not all entries in this dictionary are equally reliable. Consider all options carefully when choosing a translation, and when in doubt look over the example phrases and entry notes.