This study is both a phonological and comparative study of Sanchong Gelao, a Kra-Dai language spoken in Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region of China. The inventory of phonemes and tones is presented, as well as the syllable structure. Results of comparing Sanchong Gelao to three other varieties suggest that it is best grouped as a Central Gelao variety. Finally, the analysis of the Gelao lexical inventory indicates that despite strong influences from Chinese and Tai languages, Gelao has retained a significant portion of its native vocabulary. |