Semantics - language variation Flashcards
Dialect
The variation in language which is associated with a specific geographical region.
Sociolect
Variation in language associated with membership of a particular social group.
Idiolect
Variation in language which is specific to a particular person.
Formal lexis
Language which is more impersonal, uses Standard English rather than contractions, and is more likely to comprise of polysyllabic words.
Jargon
Special words or expressions used by a profession or group that are difficult for others to understand.
Subject-specific lexis
Words that are specific to a certain subject - the terms could be used with different meanings in different contexts.
Informal lexis
Language which is more relaxed, familiar and conversational - uses colloquial / non-standard English, and is more likely to comprise of monosyllabic words.
Expletive
The formal term for swear words.
Taboo
Words and phrases which are generally considered inappropriate in certain situations.
Slang
A constantly changing type of language which is very informal and is more commonly seen in speech.
Contraction
A word which is formed by shortening and combining two words with the use of an apostrophe.
Colloquialism / colloquial language
Informal language which often includes slang.
Register
A variety of language that is associated with a particular situation of use.
Situation of use
A specific time, place and context in which communication takes place.
Frozen register
Language that never changes.
Formal register
Standard English
Professional / consultative register
Less formal Standard English which doesn’t always completely conform to Standard English rules.
Casual / informal / conversational register
Language between friends.
Intimate / personal register
Language between lovers or other close family and friends.
Vulgar slang register
Informal language that may cause offence.
Academic register
Language which is more academic - it is normally semi-formal.
Informative register
Language which conveys meanings / information.
Transactional register
Language which supports transactional interactions in which one person provides a service or a good.
