10 Questions
How does common usage typically define 'language' and 'dialect'?
Based on historical derivations
What social factors are commonly considered when defining dialects?
Class and location
How is 'dialect' often viewed in relation to 'language'?
'Dialect' is considered subordinate to 'language'
Why does Hudson (1980) argue that claiming a variety as a language based on size is meaningless?
Because size is entirely subjective
Why is using 'mutual intelligibility' as a criterion problematic for distinguishing between 'language' and 'dialect'?
It suggests a division between the terms that is subjective
What is the concept of mutual intelligibility?
The ability of speakers of two varieties to understand each other.
How does popular usage in Scandinavia differ from the concept of mutual intelligibility?
Norwegian, Swedish, and Danish are considered separate despite mutual intelligibility.
How do ordinary people typically view a dialect according to the text?
A local and non-prestigious variety of a language.
What difficulty do scholars face in distinguishing between language and dialect?
Difficulty in deciding which term should be used due to the simple dichotomy.
How does Haugen describe the situation regarding language and dialect terms?
'Infinitely complex.'
Explore the problematic aspects of defining 'language' and 'dialect', considering historical derivations and social factors such as class, location, size, and prestige. Analyze the implications of designating superiority to language over dialect and the subordinate nature of dialects.
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