English Lexicon

Standard Language

/ˈstændərd ˈlæŋɡwɪdʒ/
nounCEFR B2 (Upper)Top #1500 frequency
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Comprehensive Definitions & Senses

2 senses
As noun
  1. 1

    A language variety that has undergone substantial codification of grammar and spelling, and is accepted as the official or national norm for public communication, education, and literature.

    "The national broadcasting corporation uses the standard language for all its official news broadcasts."
  2. 2

    A codified dialect of a language that serves as a supradiesectal reference point for speakers of different regional or social varieties.

    "Educated speakers often switch to the standard language in formal professional contexts."

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Antonyms & Contrasting Words (1)

Linguistic Origin & Historical Etymology

The term 'standard language' originates from the combination of 'standard', derived from Old French 'estandard', meaning a flag or banner, and 'language', from Latin 'lingua', meaning tongue or speech. The concept evolved in the 19th century as societies sought to establish uniformity in communication across diverse dialects.

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