* Prescribed: It is often codified in dictionaries, grammar books, and style guides, creating a set of rules for correct usage.
* Formal: It is used in formal settings like government, education, and media.
* Widely accepted: It is generally understood and accepted by a large population, making it suitable for communication across different regions and social groups.
* Historically established: It often evolves from a specific dialect or regional variety that gains prominence due to factors like political power, economic influence, or social prestige.
However, it's crucial to remember that the concept of "standard language" is inherently subjective and can vary across different cultures and contexts:
* No language has a single, absolute "standard": Even within a single language, multiple regional and social variations exist. The "standard" often represents a particular dialect or variety that is considered prestigious.
* Standards evolve over time: Language is dynamic, and what is considered "standard" today may have been different in the past, and will likely be different in the future.
* Power and social structures influence standardization: Language standardization often reflects existing power structures and social hierarchies, leading to the marginalization of certain dialects and varieties.
Examples of "standard languages" include:
* English: The "standard" often refers to British English or American English, but there are variations in spelling, grammar, and vocabulary depending on the region.
* French: "Standard French" is based on the Parisian dialect, but other regional varieties exist.
* Spanish: "Standard Spanish" is largely based on Castilian Spanish, though other regional varieties are also widely spoken.
It's important to approach the concept of "standard language" critically, recognizing that it is a social construct that reflects power dynamics and historical contexts.