non-standard speech
Noun: 1. Speech that differs from the norm: Language or spoken communication that deviates from the conventional, widely accepted, and easily identifiable patterns used by the typical adult native speakers within a specific language community. This term is a descriptive linguistic category, not inherently a judgment of quality.
The term "non-standard speech" is used to linguistically categorize forms of spoken language that are systematic and rule-governed but differ from the dominant or prestige variety. * It is often discussed in contrast to "standard speech." * It can refer to dialects, sociolects (social dialects), ethnolects, or idiolects (individual speech patterns) that are distinct from the standardized form. * The term is neutral and academic; it describes difference, not deficiency.
- The linguist's study focused on the grammatical structures found in various forms of non-standard speech across the region.
- Children in bilingual households may sometimes use non-standard speech as they navigate between two language systems.
- Recognizing non-standard speech as a valid linguistic system is important for educators.
- In Sociolinguistics: The concept is central to understanding language variation, change, and social identity. What is considered "non-standard" is often tied to social power and prestige rather than linguistic complexity.
- As a Descriptive Label: In academic writing, "non-standard" is preferred over prescriptive or pejorative terms like "incorrect," "bad," or "substandard" speech when describing systematic linguistic variation.
- Non-standard (adjective): Describing any linguistic feature (e.g., pronunciation, grammar, vocabulary) that differs from the standard variety.
- Example: The use of "ain't" is often considered a non-standard verb form.
- Standard speech (noun): The opposite counterpart; the prestige dialect that has been codified and is typically used in formal writing, education, and broadcasting.
- Vernacular speech: The everyday, native speech of a community, often contrasted with a literary or standard form.
- Dialectal speech: Speech characteristic of a particular regional or social dialect.
- Colloquial speech: Informal, conversational language, which may include non-standard features.
- Standard speech
- Received Pronunciation (RP - specific to British English)
- General American (a standard accent in the United States)
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speech that differs from the usual accepted, easily recognizable speech of native adult members of a speech community
