Intros Flashcards
F/InF Intro
In Australia, Standard Australian English (SAE), the dominant variety, is seen by many as a “linguistic best practice” (Burridge). Serving a multitude of social and functional purposes, SAE carries overt prestige and is widely considered important. However, in many contexts SAE is transcended by non-Standard varieties, including ethnolects and the Broad Australian accent and dialect for their covert prestige and abilities to convey authenticity and signal solidarity. Though SAE is inextricably associated with the core communicative needs of language, non-Standard varieties serve important identity functions in the dynamic linguistic landscape of contemporary Australia.
Attitudes intro
Far from a monolithic entity, Australian English is a cluster of mutually intelligible speech varieties. Whilst these varieties possess their own unique features, each evokes both positive and negative perceptions from different groups. Widely believed to be “intrinsically superior” (Burridge), Standard Australian English (SAE) is necessary for universal comprehension particularly in the public domain. However, non-Standard varieties, such as the Broad Australian accent and dialect along with ethnocultural varieties are often associated with inferiority despite them being equally valid linguistic alternatives. Australian English is a convenient term to describe the dynamic linguistic landscape of contemporary Australia; the diversity and variability of AusE necessarily attracts a range of attitudes, judgements and perceptions.
Include/Exclude
As a potent tool for the expression of group and individual identities, language empowers users to strengthen bonds and relationships while retaining the ability to endorse injustices and oppression. Through jargon, members of a group are able to reflect their identity and allegiance despite the inherent tendency of jargon to bewilder outsiders. Similarly, drawing upon dysphemistic choices in appropriate settings can consolidate relationships through generating shared humour and mateship. In some contexts, however, these choices can quickly become discriminatory and weaponised, consciously or sub-consciously, to suppress the ability of others to embrace or express their own identities. While language choices can foster unity and solidarity, language users must be wary of their capacity to alienate and diminish.
