Standard Language
* Official status: A standard language is typically recognized as the official language of a country or region. It's used in government, education, and media.
* Codified: It has a standardized set of rules for grammar, spelling, and pronunciation. These rules are often codified in dictionaries and grammar books.
* Prestige: It carries a higher level of prestige and is often seen as "correct" or "proper."
* Widely spoken: While a standard language may not be the first language of all speakers in a region, it's used as a common means of communication.
Dialect
* Regional or social variation: A dialect is a variety of a language that is spoken in a particular geographical area or by a specific social group.
* Distinct features: Dialects have their own unique features, including pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar.
* No official status: Dialects are not formally recognized as official languages.
* Often stigmatized: Dialects are often seen as less prestigious or "incorrect" compared to the standard language, though this is a social construct.
Key Differences:
* Formal recognition: A standard language has official status, while dialects don't.
* Codification: Standard languages are codified, while dialects often have less formalized rules.
* Prestige: Standard languages hold more prestige, while dialects are often stigmatized.
Important Notes:
* Interconnectedness: Standard languages often evolve from dialects.
* Subjectivity: The line between a standard language and a dialect can be blurry and subjective.
* Power dynamics: The recognition of a standard language often reflects power dynamics and historical factors.
Example:
In English, "Standard English" is the recognized standard. However, there are numerous dialects, such as Southern American English, Cockney, and Scottish English, each with distinct features.
In conclusion:
While dialects are often seen as "substandard," they are simply variations of a language that reflect the diversity of its speakers. Understanding the differences between standard languages and dialects helps us appreciate the rich tapestry of linguistic variation in the world.