A Review of the Sociolinguistic Aspects of the Greek Cypriot Dialect

Abstract

This paper examines various issues related to the current sociolinguistic situation in Cyprus. Cyprus presents, in some ways, a unique situation since language seems to have acquired a central and almost exclusive role in defining the identity of Greek Cypriots. To better understand the current sociolinguistic situation in Cyprus and to comprehend the interplay between language and identity, the linguistic practices of Cypriots described in various studies will be presented and discussed. These studies cover such interrelated issues as: (1) the diglossic situation in Cyprus; (2) language and identity; (3) attitudes towards the dialect; (4) language attitudes and how these can influence language use and language policy; and (5) attitudinal and motivational factors affecting lexical borrowing.