Understanding the Making of a Dialect Standard
To understand what makes a dialect standard, we must delve into the nuanced world of language and cultural prestige. The classification of a dialect as 'standard' is not a rigid or rule-bound process, but rather a reflection of societal status, cultural authority, and political decisions. There are no universal rules for determining a language's standard dialect, making this subject a fascinating area of study.
The Role of Status
The standard dialect of a language is typically identified as the dialect of the educated, professional class in the richest or most powerful region of a country. This dialect often carries the greatest cultural prestige and is recognized for its authority and stability. For example, in France, there is the 'Académie Fran?aise', an institution that plays a significant role in establishing and maintaining the norms of the French language. Similarly, in the United Kingdom, the 'Received Pronunciation' (RP) accent is often associated with the standard English dialect.
A Case Study: The Standardization of Bulgarian
A notable example of the creation of a standard dialect is the linguistic standardization of Bulgarian. Instead of adopting a dialect naturally spoken by the populace, the Bulgarian standard dialect was crafted by blending features from various regions. This approach aimed to create a neutral standard that did not favor one region over another. While this method ensures a more inclusive standard, it also makes the dialect seem artificial and less connected to everyday speech.
Standard Dialects in Various Countries
Different countries have different standard dialects. For instance, French has a recognized and authoritative standard, while in the United States, the 'General American' dialect serves a similar function. In the UK, 'Standard British English' is spoken as the second dialect by most people in England and Wales, and as the third dialect by most people in Scotland, who also speak Standard Scottish English. This fluidity of dialect use highlights the dynamic nature of language adaptation and standardization.
The Evolution of Standard British English
The standard dialect in the United Kingdom is rooted in the dialects of the educated classes in the southeast of England. The grammar and syntax of Standard British English are influenced by the educational institutions of that region, which have historically been funded by richer families. The accent itself, 'Received Pronunciation' (RP), is often associated with the 'upper' class of the southeast. However, it's worth noting that while RP is traditionally considered the standard accent, the standard idiom can be spoken with a variety of accents, including those from different regions.
Formality Gradients in Standard Dialects
Standard dialects often exhibit varying degrees of formality, with 'General American' and 'Standard British English' being prime examples. In these standard dialects, formal English maintains a consistent structure and vocabulary, whereas informal or colloquial English may incorporate stylistic preferences and jargon. Within a profession, such as nursing, the use of standard terminology is essential for clarity and precision. For instance, a nurse might use the term 'contusion' in formal settings, whereas they might use 'a bruise' in informal conversations, but neither usage would be considered 'non-standard'.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the making of a dialect standard involves a complex interplay of cultural, political, and social factors. While some languages have recognized authoritative bodies to establish and enforce standards, other languages have 'de facto' standards. The standard dialects are crucial for communication, education, and formal discourse. Understanding the nuances of standard dialects can provide insight into the cultural and linguistic landscapes of different regions and countries.