Abstract
This chapter explores the role of isolation as an important sociolinguistic variable in the evolution of language varieties. We outline three dimensions of isolation: geographic, social, and socio-psychological isolation. In insular settings, for example, geographic isolation is the most influential factor in the independent evolution of a variety, whereas in so-called Sprachinseln and immigrant communities, social and socio-psychological isolation may be more important. Moreover, the chapter discusses sociolinguistic changes in isolated communities, both in terms of retention of linguistic features as well as in local innovation. We argue that isolated communities and their individual histories lend themselves ideally to investigations in dialectology, contact linguistics, and diachronic processes of language change.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
