Definition

Noun A variety of the Dutch language spoken in the northern region of Belgium, known as Flanders. It is one of the two official languages of Belgium and is closely related to, and largely mutually intelligible with, the Dutch spoken in the Netherlands.

Usage

The term "Flemish dialect" is used to refer to the collective group of Dutch language varieties spoken in Flanders. It is important in contexts discussing Belgian linguistics, culture, and official policy. * The government publishes documents in both French and the Flemish dialect. * She is conducting research on the phonological features of the Flemish dialect.

Advanced Usage

• While often called a dialect for historical and political reasons, linguists frequently describe it as a regional standard language or a national variety of Dutch (specifically, Belgian Dutch). The term "Flemish" can refer to the official standard language used in administration and education in Flanders, as well as to the local, non-standard dialects.
• The phrase "Flemish dialect" can sometimes be used in a broader, non-technical sense to mean the Dutch language as used in Belgium.

Variants and Related Words

• Flemish (noun/adjective): The more common term for the language. (e.g., )
• Belgian Dutch (noun): A neutral, linguistic term emphasizing its status as a national variety of the Dutch language.
• Dutch (noun): The overarching language which includes both the Netherlands Dutch and Belgian Dutch (Flemish) varieties.

Synonyms

• Belgian Dutch
• Flemish (language)
• Vlaams (the Dutch/Flemish word for Flemish)

Notes on Meaning

1. Official Language Sense: Refers to the standardized language used in government, media, and education in Flanders.
2. Dialectal Sense: Can refer to the specific local dialects within Flanders (e.g., West Flemish, East Flemish), which may differ significantly from the standard. The context usually clarifies which sense is intended.

Noun

1. one of two official languages of Belgium; closely related to Dutch