Standard Language

Definition

A standard language is a form of a language that is widely accepted as the norm, typically used in formal settings and often promoted by educational and governmental institutions. It serves as a benchmark for linguistic correctness, distinguishing it from various dialects or regional forms, which may carry their own unique rules and usages. The concept of standard language is closely tied to issues of power, identity, and linguistic gatekeeping, as those who control the definition of 'standard' can influence social dynamics.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Standard languages are often based on the dialect spoken by the educated elite in a region, which can perpetuate social inequalities.
2. The promotion of a standard language can facilitate communication across diverse linguistic backgrounds but may also suppress local dialects and languages.
3. Standard languages are commonly used in official documents, educational materials, and media broadcasts, influencing public perception of what is 'correct' language usage.
4. Linguistic gatekeeping can occur when speakers of non-standard dialects face discrimination or are judged as less intelligent or credible due to their speech patterns.
5. The concept of standard language is not static; it can evolve over time as societal attitudes shift and new linguistic influences emerge.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of standard language relate to issues of power and social inequality?
  • The concept of standard language is deeply intertwined with power dynamics in society. It typically reflects the speech patterns of the educated elite, which can marginalize speakers of regional dialects and minority languages. This creates social inequality, as individuals who do not conform to the standard may face prejudice or be deemed less competent. Thus, those who control the definition of what constitutes a standard language can influence broader societal perceptions and opportunities.
• Discuss how linguistic gatekeeping can impact individuals who speak non-standard languages or dialects.
  • Linguistic gatekeeping creates barriers for individuals who speak non-standard languages or dialects by enforcing the idea that only certain forms of speech are valid or acceptable. This can lead to negative stereotypes about speakers of non-standard forms, affecting their social interactions, educational opportunities, and employment prospects. As a result, speakers may feel pressured to abandon their linguistic identity in favor of conforming to the standard language norms to gain acceptance or credibility in society.
• Evaluate the role of media in shaping perceptions of standard language and its implications for cultural identity.
  • Media plays a critical role in shaping perceptions of standard language by promoting certain dialects as authoritative while often neglecting others. This has significant implications for cultural identity, as individuals may feel compelled to adopt the standard language to align with societal expectations portrayed in media. Over time, this can erode local dialects and diminish cultural heritage, leading to a homogenized linguistic landscape that favors the dominant language form. The evaluation reveals how media representation reinforces or challenges existing power structures within language use.

Related terms

Dialect: A particular form of a language that is specific to a region or social group, often differing in vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation.

Linguistic Hegemony: The dominance of one language or dialect over others, often leading to the marginalization of non-standard forms and speakers.

Prescriptivism: The belief that there are strict rules for how a language should be used, which often relates to the promotion of a standard language.