Spanish Language in America: Dialects and Communication Functions

Spanish Language in America: Diversity and Standardization

Spanish is spoken in more than 19 Latin American countries as an official language, not counting former colonial countries that do not have it as an official language. Spanish in America has influences from pre-Columbian languages like Quechua or Guaraní.

Linguistic Features of American Spanish

Some notable features include:

• Yeísmo (merger of 'll' and 'y' sounds)
• Lisp (referring to regional variations like seseo or ceceo)
• Vos (use of 'vos' instead of 'tú')
• Changes in gender
• Diminutives
• Dequeísmo (incorrect use of 'de que')
• Archaisms
• Indigenous influences
• English neologisms

The Need for Pan-Hispanic Standardization

Pan-Hispanic grammar is necessary. The language varies yet is unified. Therefore, all educational institutions should agree to set basic standards that apply to the root of the language, not just to its different branches (dialects). Put another way: universal rules must be created to govern Spanish both in Spain and Latin America.

The Functions of Language and Communication

Defining the Communicative Situation

We call the communicative situation the time and place where a communicative encounter occurs, in which we can identify specific elements (factors).

Factors of Communication

Language is used to communicate a reality (whether affirmative, negative, or uncertain), a desire, admiration, or to ask questions or give an order. The different types of sentences we use to express these realities determine the role that language plays.

The Six Functions of Language

1. Emotive Function

   The message issued by the sender refers to what they feel, dominating all other factors. Linguistic forms that perform this function correspond to interjections and exclamatory sentences.

2. Conative Function

   The receiver predominates over other factors of communication, as the communication is centered on the person addressed ('you'), who is expected to complete an act or provide a response. The linguistic forms in which the conative function is mainly performed correspond to the vocative, imperative, and interrogative sentences.

3. Referential Function

   The act of communication is focused on the context—that is, the topic or issue being referenced. Declarative or assertive sentences, which can be affirmative or negative, are typically used.

4. Metalinguistic Function

   It focuses on the language code itself. The code is the dominant factor (used when language explains language).

5. Phatic Function

   Consists of starting, stopping, continuing, or terminating the communication, ensuring the channel is open.

6. Poetic Function

   Used preferably in literature. The act of communication is focused on the message itself, in its arrangement, and how it is transmitted. Expressive resources used include rhyme, alliteration, etc.