In
linguistics, a sociolect is the
variety of language characteristic of a social background or status. It is a
portmanteau term combining the
morphemes "socio-," meaning social and "-lect," meaning a variety of language. A
dialect which evolves from regional speech may also have sociolectical implications. For example, standard
Italian is a dialect in that it is particular to
Tuscany; yet, being the national language of Italy, it is also a sociolect in that it carries a certain prestige from being the
lingua franca throughout the country – both in broadcasting, in the press, and by people of high social status.
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