Mae govannen — "Well met"
Learn Elvish
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Master Quenya and Sindarin, Tolkien's Elvish languages, with structured lessons, an AI tutor, and the Tengwar writing system — every word sourced from Tolkien's own texts.
Why Learn Elvish With Tengwar
Genuine Vocabulary
Every word and phrase is drawn directly from Tolkien's writings — never invented, always source-cited.
AI Tutor Mithrandir
30 interactive lessons with instant feedback, pronunciation guidance, and adaptive practice.
The Tengwar Alphabet
Learn to read and write the Elvish script seen on the One Ring, the Doors of Durin, and Middle-earth manuscripts.
Both Quenya and Sindarin
Learn High-Elvish Quenya and the Grey-Elven Sindarin spoken throughout The Lord of the Rings.
Essential Elvish Words
Genuine Tolkien phrases to get started
| English | Quenya | Sindarin |
|---|---|---|
| Hello / Welcome | Aiya | Mae govannen |
| Friend | Mellon | Mellon |
| I love you | Mélan le | Gi melin |
| Star | Elen | Gil |
| Farewell | Namárië | Navaer |
| Hope | Estel | Estel |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to learn Elvish?
Tengwar (learningelvish.com) is a dedicated platform for Tolkien's Elvish — Quenya and Sindarin — with gamified lessons, an AI tutor (Mithrandir) that cites Tolkien sources for every answer, spaced-repetition flashcards, and Tengwar script practice. Start with the free tier: no credit card required.
Should I learn Quenya or Sindarin first?
Sindarin appears more often in The Lord of the Rings films and is generally considered slightly more approachable for beginners. Quenya is the more ceremonial "Elf-latin" with deeper documented grammar. Tengwar teaches both, and most learners pick up greetings in each before specializing.
Is Elvish a real language?
Quenya and Sindarin are constructed languages J.R.R. Tolkien built over decades, with real grammar, phonology, and thousands of documented words — among the most fully-developed conlangs ever created, informed by Tolkien's own expertise as a philologist.
How do you say hello in Elvish?
"Mae govannen" is "well met" in Sindarin — the standard Elvish greeting used throughout Middle-earth fandom. In Quenya, "Aiya" serves a similar role.
How long does it take to learn Elvish?
Reading the Tengwar alphabet can be learned in a few weeks. Basic conversational Quenya or Sindarin — greetings, simple sentences, core vocabulary — typically takes 3-6 months of regular study with a structured course and spaced repetition.
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