What is a dialect?

1 answer

A dialect is a particular form of a language that is specific to a certain region or group of people. Dialects can include variations in vocabulary, grammar, pronunciation, and usage that distinguish them from other forms of the same language. They often reflect the cultural and social identities of the speakers and can vary based on factors such as geography, ethnicity, and social class.

Dialects can be thought of as subcategories of a language; for example, American English and British English are dialects of the English language. Within those, there are further regional dialects, such as Southern American English or Cockney English. Dialects contribute to the richness and diversity of languages and can convey local history and social contexts.