Sociolectal divergence in dialectometrics

Abstract

Dialectometrics aims at establishing a dialectal system of relations which enables the division of dialects within a given region into dialects of specific relational planes. Among language varieties, the difference between a regional dialect and a social dialect is well defined. Both regional and social dialects belong to one language continuum, but may also form their own language spectrum. Taking into account the state of research into African languages, most classifications are tentative. For example, dialect distance measured now according to the criterion of mutual intelligibility, instead of the Standard test, is not based on a better method but mainly due to the existence of low or vague Standard forms. More sophisticated is the establishment of sociolects. It assumes the transformation of a regional dialect into a social dialect which later on develops into a sociolect, i.e. a variety marked off from the Standard form on the one hand, through regional and social stigmas, on the other hand, throug...