Bilingualism:
* Definition: The ability to speak two languages fluently.
* Function: Both languages are used for a wide range of purposes and in various social contexts.
* Social Implications: Usually, both languages have equal status and are used interchangeably.
* Examples: Someone who speaks English and Spanish at home, school, and work.
Diglossia:
* Definition: The existence of two distinct varieties of a language within a community, where one variety is considered "high" (H) and the other "low" (L). These varieties are often distinct in their grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation.
* Function: Each variety has a specific social role.
* High (H) variety: Used in formal settings like education, government, and literature.
* Low (L) variety: Used in informal settings like home, with family and friends.
* Social Implications: The H variety often carries prestige and is associated with education and higher social status. The L variety is typically seen as less formal and may be associated with lower social status.
* Examples:
* Classical Arabic (H) and colloquial Arabic (L) in many Arabic-speaking countries.
* Standard German (H) and Swiss German (L) in Switzerland.
* Formal and informal forms of French in parts of Canada.
Key differences in a nutshell:
* Bilingualism = Two languages, equal status.
* Diglossia = Two varieties of the same language, unequal status.
Diglossia is a complex phenomenon, and the distinction between H and L varieties can be nuanced. For example, the L variety may have its own grammar and vocabulary, even if it is considered less prestigious.