Sociolinguistic Terminology: Language Contact and Dynamics

Monolingualism

Refers to a single linguistic community within the same state (e.g., Albania).

Linguistic Conflict

A situation that occurs when there is tension, normalization, or replacement of languages. Conflict between two linguistic communities and social dimensions always leads to language normalization or language shift.

Language Shift

The process through which a first language is gradually replaced by another. This process of linguistic substitution is normally directly related to homogenization processes within a certain state framework or to processes of colonialism. For a process of substitution to start, an element of political pressure is necessary, such that the linguistic community must become a minority.

Linguistic Right

A discipline that deals with legal frameworks defining linguistic learning and language use.

Specialized Language (Register)

Refers to a language's own specialized domain or specific register.

Bilingualism

The alternative use of two languages by an individual or a group.

Individual Bilingualism

Occurs when an individual has the capacity to master two languages. It can be symmetric or asymmetric. Symmetric bilingualism refers to speakers who use both languages equally. Asymmetric bilingualism refers to speakers who do not use two languages in the same way.

Territorial Bilingualism

Occurs when a territory is split into two parts, with each part using a different language. Example: Canada, where English and French are spoken.

Social Bilingualism

A situation of contact between two languages arises because, for extralinguistic reasons, a whole language community is forced to become bilingual in the language that plays a dominant role in the state.

Myth of Monolingual Bilingualism

Bilingualism is a social fallacy; it is always a stage in the language shift process.

Subordinate Bilingualism

Occurs when individuals in a linguistic community are subordinated and forced to learn and use another language.

Language Replacement Policy

Occurs when an assimilationist language policy tries to reduce the number of speakers of the dominated language and break its intergenerational transmission.

Bilingualization

The process by which an individual is forced to acquire a second language because they live in a dominant society.

Bilingual Person

A person who can know and use two different languages.

Bilingualist

A supporter of bilingualism, or one who defends substitutive bilingualism as an ideal situation.