SOCIAL INFLUENCES ON THE USE OF NON-STANDARD VOCABULARY IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE

Аннотация

This article examines the social factors influencing the adoption and use of non-standard vocabulary within linguistic communities. It explores how variables such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, and regional background contribute to the variation in language use, particularly in informal and digital communication contexts. The study delves into the concept of "covert prestige," where non-standard forms are employed to signal group identity and solidarity, often in opposition to standard language norms. Additionally, it discusses the role of linguistic insecurity, especially among lower middle-class speakers, who may overcorrect their speech to align with perceived prestige standards. The article also highlights how stylistic choices and the social context of interactions, including the race and dialect of interlocutors, influence the frequency and acceptance of non-standard vocabulary. Through a comprehensive analysis of sociolinguistic theories and empirical data, the article provides insights into the complex interplay between social identity and language variation.