"The Xumi use their native language as the primary language of oral communication for family and community events. A considerable percentage of Xumi women are monolingual, whereas most men are proficient in Mandarin Chinese (the local variety of South-West Mandarin). In addition, Lower Xumi speakers often have a good command of Pumi (and some even of Naxi and Mosuo), whereas Upper Xumi speakers often have a good command of Gami Tibetan. The language of the Xumi is traditionally considered by its speakers and ethnic neighbors alike as mixed and combining elements of various local languages. It does not have its own writing system."