Covert prestige

Definition

Covert prestige refers to the social status that speakers may gain by using non-standard forms of language or dialects, which are often associated with specific social groups or communities. This concept highlights how certain linguistic choices can provide a sense of identity, belonging, or solidarity among speakers, despite not conforming to the dominant or standard language norms.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Covert prestige can lead to the valorization of non-standard dialects, especially in contexts where those dialects signify cultural identity or local loyalty.
2. Speakers may adopt features of non-standard language as a means of expressing rebellion against perceived linguistic elitism associated with standard language forms.
3. The influence of covert prestige can be particularly strong in communities where local identity is more valued than mainstream acceptance.
4. Non-standard speech patterns may carry covert prestige among peers but could be viewed negatively in formal settings, highlighting a tension between identity and acceptability.
5. The phenomenon of covert prestige underscores the complexities of linguistic hierarchy, showing that social status is not solely linked to standard language use.

Review Questions

• How does covert prestige influence language use among different social groups?
  • Covert prestige influences language use by encouraging speakers to adopt non-standard forms associated with their social group. This can create a sense of identity and belonging among members who share similar linguistic traits. As speakers embrace these non-standard forms, they may resist dominant standards, reinforcing their social ties and valuing their unique cultural expressions.
• In what ways can the concept of covert prestige challenge traditional views on linguistic hierarchy?
  • Covert prestige challenges traditional views on linguistic hierarchy by illustrating that non-standard forms can hold significant value within specific communities. While standard language often carries overt prestige and is seen as more desirable, covert prestige reveals that the linguistic choices made by marginalized or non-conforming groups can foster community cohesion and pride. This complexity highlights the multifaceted nature of language and its relationship to social identity.
• Evaluate the implications of covert prestige for educators working in linguistically diverse classrooms.
  • The implications of covert prestige for educators in linguistically diverse classrooms are substantial. Educators must recognize that students' use of non-standard forms may reflect valuable aspects of their identity and community. By acknowledging and valuing these linguistic choices, teachers can create a more inclusive environment that promotes self-esteem and engagement. Furthermore, integrating discussions about covert versus overt prestige can enhance students' understanding of linguistic diversity and encourage respect for different speech patterns while also helping them navigate when to adapt their language for different contexts.

Related terms

overt prestige:

Overt prestige is the recognition and social status granted to speakers who use standard forms of language, which are often associated with higher social classes or formal education.

sociolinguistics: Sociolinguistics is the study of how language varies and changes in social groups, examining the relationship between language and society.

dialect: A dialect is a particular form of a language that is specific to a region or social group, differing in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation from other forms of the same language.