African American Vernacular English

Definition

African American Vernacular English (AAVE) is a variety of English characterized by unique grammatical, pronunciation, and vocabulary features spoken primarily by African Americans. It reflects the historical and cultural experiences of the African American community, often incorporating elements from African languages, Southern American English, and urban slang. AAVE serves as both a means of identity and cultural expression within the community.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. AAVE has distinct phonological rules, such as dropping the final consonants in words, which can change the pronunciation of words like 'test' to 'tes'.
2. Grammatical features of AAVE include the use of 'be' to indicate habitual actions, such as saying 'He be working' to mean he usually works.
3. AAVE is not just slang; it follows systematic linguistic rules, making it a fully developed and valid dialect.
4. The use of AAVE can signify cultural identity and community solidarity among speakers, fostering a sense of belonging.
5. Misunderstanding or stigmatizing AAVE can lead to social and educational inequities for speakers, as they may be unfairly judged on their language use.

Review Questions

• How does African American Vernacular English function as a means of identity for its speakers?
  • African American Vernacular English serves as a key marker of cultural identity among its speakers. It allows individuals to express their heritage and connect with their community while fostering a sense of belonging. By using AAVE, speakers can communicate shared experiences and values, distinguishing themselves within broader social contexts. This connection to culture and community enhances the significance of language as more than just a communication tool.
• Discuss the grammatical features unique to African American Vernacular English and their implications for linguistic legitimacy.
  • African American Vernacular English possesses several unique grammatical features that highlight its legitimacy as a dialect. For example, it uses specific constructions like the habitual 'be' to convey ongoing actions, which is not found in Standard American English. These features challenge misconceptions that AAVE is merely incorrect English. Instead, they demonstrate that AAVE follows consistent linguistic patterns and rules, reinforcing its status as a valid form of communication.
• Evaluate the social implications of stigmatizing African American Vernacular English in educational settings.
  • Stigmatizing African American Vernacular English in educational settings can have profound social implications. When educators dismiss AAVE as incorrect or inferior, it can lead to negative attitudes toward students who speak it, impacting their self-esteem and academic performance. This discrimination can also perpetuate systemic inequities by undermining the linguistic skills of students who are fluent in AAVE but may struggle with Standard American English. Emphasizing the legitimacy of AAVE can promote inclusivity and help bridge communication gaps between diverse student populations.

Related terms

Code-switching: The practice of alternating between two or more languages or dialects in conversation, often used by speakers of AAVE to adapt to different social contexts.

Standard American English: The form of English that is widely accepted as the norm in formal settings and is often taught in schools, contrasting with dialects like AAVE.

Ebonics: A term that has been used interchangeably with AAVE, often emphasizing its legitimacy as a distinct linguistic system rather than merely a set of incorrect forms of Standard English.