Text Properties, Language Status, and Spanish Linguistics

Understanding the Text

A text consists of a sequence of words or phrases that convey a complete message; it is considered a communicative act. Its length has a precise limit, and within it, other smaller units are included, such as paragraphs and sentences. Each type of text has a specific organization. For example, a novel is divided into chapters, paragraphs, and sentences, while a poem is structured into stanzas and lines.

Key Properties of a Text

For a text to make complete sense, it must possess certain properties. The text has to adapt to the circumstances of the communicative situation in which it is produced.

Adequacy

Adequacy is the property of choosing the appropriate language for each situation, ensuring there is a correspondence between all elements involved in the communication. To achieve this, we must take the following into account:

• Intention: Depending on the required purpose, a particular style of language will be chosen to deliver the message effectively.
• Topic: How the subject will be approached and addressed will determine the language used.
• The Recipient: A different linguistic register is chosen depending on whether the person is known or unknown, or if there is a level of trust.
• The Channel: The means by which the message is conveyed, whether orally or in writing, such as on television, radio, or via SMS.
• The Time: The moment when the message needs to be delivered.
• The Place: The physical space where the sender and receiver are located.

Language Classification and Status

In most countries, several languages are spoken within their territory, but not all languages have the same status. Depending on their situation, we can distinguish between different types:

• Official Languages: Those used by many speakers and recognized by the state.
• Stateless Languages: Languages belonging to territories that lack political independence.
• Major Languages: Those that are used by a large number of speakers.
• Minority Languages: These are spoken by a small number of people.
• Hegemonic Languages: These have a great social reputation because they are supported by political and economic power. A prime example of a hegemonic language is English.
• Minoritized Languages: These are in an inferior position within their own linguistic community and often have no official recognition.

Linguistic Diversity in the Spanish State

In Spain, since the Middle Ages, a policy was enacted that sought the supremacy of the Spanish language over others. Castilian became the hegemonic language, and other languages were marginalized, becoming minority languages. This was amended by the Spanish Constitution of 1978, which establishes the equality of Castilian with the other Spanish languages in their respective territories.

The officially recognized languages in Spain are:

• Galician
• Spanish (Castilian)
• Valencian
• Basque

Additionally, the Asturian-Leonese language is spoken in western Asturias and Castile and León. In 1981, the Statute of Autonomy for Galicia was adopted, establishing Galician as the official language of Galicia.