Language:
* Typically considered a standard form: It's the language used in formal settings, education, media, and government.
* Has a codified system: It has a standardized grammar, spelling, and vocabulary.
* Often associated with a national or ethnic identity: It represents a shared cultural and historical heritage.
* Recognized by a community: There is widespread agreement on what constitutes the "standard" language.
* Examples: English, Spanish, French, Mandarin Chinese
Dialect:
* A regional or social variation of a language: It includes differences in pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar, and even intonation.
* Mutually intelligible with other dialects of the same language: While there may be differences, speakers of different dialects can generally understand each other.
* Often viewed as less prestigious: Dialects are sometimes associated with lower social status or rural areas.
* Not codified: There's no official system for grammar, spelling, or vocabulary.
* Examples: American English vs. British English, Cockney English, Southern American English
Key Differences:
* Status: Language is considered standard and prestigious, while dialects are seen as variations.
* Codification: Language has codified rules, while dialects don't.
* Mutual intelligibility: Dialects of the same language are generally mutually intelligible.
* Social and political factors: The distinction between language and dialect is often influenced by social and political factors, like power structures and cultural dominance.
It's important to note that:
* The distinction between language and dialect is often subjective and can be debated.
* There are many cases where the line is blurry, with some dialects evolving into distinct languages over time.
* All dialects are equally valid forms of communication and deserve respect.
A common analogy:
Think of language as a tree, and dialects as the branches. The tree is the overall system, while the branches represent different variations that still share the same basic structure.