Abstract: A method of encoding and decoding languages for international communication. A set of core words may be encoded, although the full vocabulary of the language might also be covered. The result is particularly suitable for use by people in relation to the keypad of a mobile phone, but may also be implemented in translation or communication software to create a language database for example. The encoding includes assigning digital symbols to selected words in the language, assigning alphanumeric representations to the digital symbols, and assigning pronounceable elements to the alphanumeric representations.