Dialects or regiolects: What really shapes our language?

Dialects or regiolects: What really shapes our language?

Deutschland - The German language is diverse and rich in various language variants that shape our regional identities. Above all, the dialects, which are characterized for centuries due to their strong regional differences and independent development. According to t-online are dialects such as Bavarian, Schwäbisch or Saxon and can vary from village to village. These language forms reflect the cultural peculiarities of their region of origin.

The regiolects stand above the dialects. These represent an intermediate level between dialect and High German and arise when dialect spokesman adapt their language to High German, but still maintain regional peculiarities. A popular example of this is Ruhr German, which dominates High German, but has terms such as "Wat" and "Come". The adaptations of the language are not only a sign of change, but also an indicator of the mobility of the people, which is promoted by immigration and media use.

language varieties and their importance

The diversity of the German language does not only include dialects and regiolects. Sociolects, the linguistic forms of expression of certain social groups, also play a central role. According to Knowunity , for example, youth language and ethnolectal speaking methods such as "Türkendeutsch" are important forms that have developed as a result of social dynamics. This shows creative word creations and the influence of anglicisms.

The definition of language varieties comprises all different forms of a language that differs according to regional, social or functional criteria. A remarkable process that affects all areas of language is language change. This change is particularly evident in vocabulary when new terms arise and old disappear. Linguists consider this change as a natural development process, although the debate about language change is often emotionally conducted.

everyday language and colloquial language

In everyday life, on the other hand, the colloquial language is preferred, which invites you to a relaxed discussion with friends and family. In both variants, everyday language and colloquial language, letters can often be swallowed in order to facilitate the flow of conversation. Such forms of language are also increasingly used in social media and chat language, which makes them part of modern communication culture.

Therefore, the language of a person not only reflects their origin, but also the social identity and the influence of their environment. The loss of many dialects through the increasing influence of High German in schools and professional life is considered problematic because it endangers the diversity of German culture.