Entity: DIGLOSSIA
Diglossia refers to a linguistic phenomenon where two distinct varieties of a language are used within the same speech community, typically in different social contexts.
Diglossia
Etymology
The term 'diglossia' is derived from the Greek words 'di' (two) and 'glossa' (tongue or language).
Definition
Diglossia refers to a linguistic situation where two distinct varieties of a language are used within the same speech community, with one variety typically considered 'high' or formal, and the other 'low' or informal.
Historical Context
Diglossia has been observed in various societies throughout history, often associated with social hierarchies and power dynamics.
Cultural Significance
The presence of diglossia can reflect societal values, power structures, and linguistic identity within a community.
Related Concepts
Diglossia is related to code-switching, bilingualism, and language maintenance and shift.
See Also
- Code-switching
- Bilingualism
- Language maintenance and shift
A situation in which two different forms of the same language are used by a community, with one variety considered 'high' and the other 'low'.