Introduction
Language standardisation is the process by which a particular dialect or variety of a language is selected, codified, and institutionalised as the “correct” form. This process is deeply tied to social, political, and economic power, rather than being a neutral linguistic evolution.
In this article, we will examine the four key stages of standardisation proposed by linguist Einar Haugen (1966) and their implications for society.
The 4 Stages of Language Standardisation
1. Selection: Choosing the Dominant Variety
- A single dialect is selected from multiple existing varieties.
- The chosen form is typically linked to political, economic, or cultural elites (e.g., London English becoming Standard English).
- Example: In post-independence India, Khadi Boli Hindi was selected over other dialects for official use.
- Why it matters: The selection process reinforces societal hierarchies.
2. Codification: Fixing the Rules
- The selected variety is formally documented through:
- Dictionaries (e.g., Samuel Johnson’s Dictionary of the English Language, 1755).
- Grammar books and pronunciation guides.
- Establishes “correct” vs. “incorrect” usage, often marginalising other dialects.
- Impact: Non-standard speakers may face discrimination in education and professional settings.
3. Elaboration of Function: Expanding Usage
- The standardised language must adapt to formal domains like:
- Education (textbooks, exams).
- Law & Government (legal documents, official communications).
- Science & Media (technical terminology, news broadcasting).
- New words are often borrowed from classical languages (e.g., Latin for English, Sanskrit for Hindi).
- Challenge: The language can seem artificial or difficult for everyday speakers.
4. Acceptance: Widespread Adoption
- The standardised form must gain social legitimacy and be recognised as the “national” or “official” language.
- Examples:
- English in the U.S., U.K., and Australia.
- Hindi is India’s official language (alongside regional languages like Bengali, Tamil).
- Result: Strengthens national identity but can suppress linguistic diversity.
Why Does Standardisation Matter?
- Power Dynamics: Reflects and reinforces social inequalities.
- Education & Employment: Standard language proficiency often determines opportunities.
- Cultural Identity: It can unify a nation, but also erase regional dialects.
University Questions
June 2024 Term- End Examination
June 2023 Term-End Examination
Comprehensive Q&A on Language Standardisation
1. What is language standardisation?
It is the process of selecting, codifying, and promoting one language variety as the “correct” form, often tied to political and social power.
2. Who decides which language becomes standard?
Typically, elites (political leaders, scholars, media) influence the selection, favouring the dialect of the most powerful group.
3. How does standardisation affect non-standard speakers?
They may face stigmatisation in education, media, and professional settings, leading to linguistic discrimination.
4. Can a standardised language change over time?
Yes, but changes are slow and often controlled by institutions (e.g., dictionary updates, education reforms).
Conclusion
Language standardisation is not just about grammar rules—it’s about power, identity, and social control. While it ensures uniformity in official communication, it can also marginalize dialects and speakers of non-standard varieties.
Understanding this process helps us critically examine language policies, education systems, and media representation.
Want to learn more about sociolinguistics? Explore our related articles on language and power and dialect variations.